History of the Reformed Presbyterian church in America: with sketches of all her ministry, congregations, missions, institutions, publications, etc .

REV. LOUIS FITZGERALD BENSON. D. D.

BEQUEATHED BY HIM TO

THE LIBRARY OF

PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

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BX 8992 .G6 1888

Glasgow, W. Melancthon 1856-

1909.
History of the Reformed

Prochvt or -i i^^n rOniirch in

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DEC 23 1931

HISTORY

OF THE

Reformed Presbyterian Ktiurcli

IN

AIMBRICA :

WITH SKETCHES OF ALL HER MINISTRY, CONGREGATIONS,

MISSIONS, INSTITUTIONS, PUBLICATIONS, Etc..

AND EMBELLISHED WITH OVER

FIFTY PORTRAITS AND

ENGRAVINGS.

BY ^^,

W. MELANCTHON GLASGOW,

BALTIMORE, MD.

BALTIMORE :

HILL & HARVEY, Publishers.
1888.

Undertaken with the approval of the Synod of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church in . America, and by a resolution passed in its
session at Newburgh, New York, June 8, 1887.

COPYRIGHTED BY

W. M. Glasgow,

PRESS OF

FiDDis, Beatty & Co.,
Baltimore, Md.

PREFACE

lIUMAN history will not be complete until man has
j I arrived at his destination to give in the final testi-
mony. Among the many millions of human beings,
however, who have come, lived, and gone from earth,,
there have always been some to fight the battles of right
and to maintain the truth of God against error. Before
passing hence, each generation of Christians built its stone
of remembrance into the rising structure of the Church
of God, and will continue to do so until the gilded dome
of this divine institution shall penetrate the heavens.
Recognizing this fact, no apology is made by the author
for presenting to the members and friends of the Re-
formed Presbyterian Church this contribution to her
history, and offering this stone of remembrance upon her
two hundredth anniversary. No history of this Church
has been written, although detached sketches have been
printed in the magazines of the Church by the venerable
historiographers, the Revs. Drs. James R. Willson and
Thomas Sproull. This work is an attempt to place upon
record an impartial, authentic, and continuous history of
the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America. It in-
cludes, also, a biographical sketch and notice of every
ordained minister and licentiate who has in any way been

IV PREFACE.

connected with the Church in America. In this depart-
ment, free use was made of memoirs of the older min-
isters, and the author did not study to avoid using the
exact language of the biographers where the event re-
lated was important, or where the sentiment expressed
suited his purpose. Most of the sketches, however, were
obtained directly from the families and descendants of
the subjects, the dates being carefully compared with the
ecclesiastical records, and are given as practically correct.
The living ministry have answered for themselves, and
delicacy forbade them speaking at length. Wherever a
life was out of tune, the chords have been touched as
softly, as could be done in order to retain the truth and
yet cause the whole strain to be heard with profit. The
Church has chosen her own Moderators of Synods, and
these have been selected as the fairest representatives of
the Church and subjects for portraits, so far as the like-
nesses could be obtained. All the Moderators appear
but five, and these never had any pictures taken, viz. :
James Blackwood, John Cannon, William Gibson, John
Kell and Robert Lusk. Some of the original pictures
were in a very bad condition, and these portraits are
pronounced excellent considering the old faded cards,
oil paintings, and daguerreotypes, from which they were
made. They were photographed several times before they
were made into copper plates of a uniform size. The
" Ives Process, " by Crosscup and West, Philadelphia, a
new invention, was the only one that could give a true
likeness at a reasonable price. These fifty illustrations
have greatly added to the expense, but correspondingly
enhanced the value of the book, which every reader

PREFACE. V

will appreciate. The best effect will be received by
holding the portrait at a little distance from the eyes.
Distance generally lends enchantment. This work con-
tains, furthermore, a sketch of every Hving and extinct
congregation ; its location, date of organization, successive
pastors, and the names of some of the prominent mem-
bers. It also contains a history of every Mission con-
ducted by the Church, as well as the Theological and
Literary Institutions, Catalogue of Students not com-
pleting the course in the Seminary of the Church, a
Chronological List of Synods, and the Magazines and
Papers conducted in the interests of the Church and
by her members.

The facts comprising much of the local history were
obtained from magazine sketches, and often the mem-
ories of old members furnished interesting data. Much
information of dates was obtained from the original and
printed records of the Church. Many of the latter were
found in ancient musty pamphlets which the tidy house-
wife had consigned to oblivion in the old trunk in the
garret. These were perseveringly brought to light from
all parts of the Church, and used in furnishing material
for this volume. The principal authorities consulted in
the historical introduction were : " Hetherington's History
of the Church of Scotland ; " " Wodrow's History of the
Sufferings of the Church of Scotland;" "Reid's History
of the Presbyterian Church of Ireland;" "Testimonies
of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Scotland, Ireland
and America ; " "Sprague's Annals of the American Pul-
pit;" "Lathan's History of the Associate Reformed Synod
of the South ; " " Scouller's Manual of the United Presby-

vi PREFACE.

terian Church;" "Dr. SprouU's Historical Sketches," and
minor works and pamphlets found in the Congressional
Library at Washington.

To the many kind friends in Europe and America who
have aided in the preparation of this volume, the author
returns his sincere thanks, and asks their pardon for the
liberty he was compelled to take in condensing and cor-
recting some of the sketches. He was under special
obligation to the late Mrs. Rebecca Junkin, of Steuben-
ville, Ohio, for the loan of a copy of the original diary
kept by the Rev. John Cuthbertson ; to the late Rev.
Dr. John Forsythe for references ; to the Rev. Dr. J. B.
Scouller for rare documents and references ; and to Drs.
Thomas Sproull, T. W. J. Wylie, Josias A. Chancellor,
Hevs. J. W. Sproull, D. B. Willson, C. D. Trumbull,
J. C. K. Milligan, R. M. Sommerville, D. S. Faris, Henry
Easson, A. M. Stavely, Robert Dunlop, and Messrs.
S. R. Burns, J. C. McMillan, W. N. Elder, Dr. S. B. W.
McLeod, and others, for numerous favors. It is a grat-
ification to know that among the many hundreds of
letters received, no less touching and kind were those
from ministers who have gone out from the Reformed
Presbyterian Church, thus showing that they have not
forgotten the home of their birth and training, and to
which they are much indebted. The manuscript prepared
for the composition of this book was sufficient to make
two volumes each of the present size, and the copy had
to be cut down about one-half in order that the whole
scope of the contemplated work might be included in one
volume of reasonable size and price.

This work is far from being perfect, and the writer is

PREFACE. Vii

just as cognizant of that fact as any of his critics.
Indeed the result of his Avork gives little evidence of
the time and labor expended upon it, and he only regrets
that abler hands had not at an earlier period gathered
and published what is attempted in this volume. If
there is any eloquence in this book, it is that of facts
and not sentiment. While it has been a labor of years,
it has also been a labor of love. While it has been a
real task, it has also been a great pleasure to gather up
these leaves of history which had been blown in all direc-
tions ; to remove them from their otherwise unnoticeable
destiny; to place them in a bundle by arranging the
stems of events one upon the other ; to unfold the incom-
plete parts by explanation ; to tie them together with
the cord of publication ; and now hang them upon the
wall of memory for preservation in the homes of the
friends of the Covenants. And, finally, the author feels
that he will be doubly compensated for the pains he has
taken, should his imperfect work prove acceptable and
interesting to those for whom it has been gathered, and
to whom it is now affectionately dedicated.

W. M. GLASGOW.

Baltimore, Md., June, 1888.

Table of Contents.

HISTORICAL INTRODUCTION.

Rise of Covenanter Church — Claims — Ancient Covenanting Socie-
ties— Position of early Christian Church — Presbyterian
form of Government — Matter of worship — Persecuted by
Jewish bigotry — Constantine establishes Christianity — De-
fection— Prelacy — Papacy — Faithful witnesses — Columba —
Culdees — Waldenses — Albigenses — Persecution — Banish-
ment— First Reformation — Covenants — German reformers
— Protestants — Pope at London — Church of England —
Puritans — Dissenters — Reformation in Scotland — Covenan-
ters— Scottish reformers — Knox — Covenants — Popery ban-
ished— Presbyterianism established — National Covenant —
Duty of Nations — Reformation overthrown — Episcopacy
established — Liturgy — Use of Covenants — Covenants re-
newed — Presbyterianism restored — High attainments —
Purest days — Westminster Assembly — Church Standards —
Solemn League and Covenant — Its importance — Its ne-
cessity— Its unjust criticism — James swears the Covenant
— Second Reformation attainments — Object of the Cov-
enanter Church — Defection — Covenants broken — Invasion
of Hamilton — Treachery of Charles II — His exile — Crom-
well— Charles II recalled — Killing times — Prelacy restored
— Terrible persecution of Covenanters — Testimony of Cov-
enanters— Ejected Ministers — Defence of Martyrs — Bold
Declarations — Ministers executed — Destitute condition —
Ministerial help — Revolution settlement — Unsatisfactory to
Covenanters — Their protests — Defection of Ministers —
Without a Ministry — John McMillan joins the Cov-
enanters— Others espouse the cause — Associate Presbytery
— Constitution of the Reformed Presbytery — Testimonies
emitted in Scotland and Ireland — Covenanters in America.
Pages

TABLE OF CONTENTS. ix-

POSITION OF CHURCH.

Terms of Communion in the Reformed Presbyterian Church of
America — Position of this Church in America — Dissent
from the Constitution of the United States — Reasons for
it — Moral support — Reformers — Church and State — Na-
tional Reform Association — Covenanter Church a necessity
— Social Covenanting — Secret Societies — Psalmody — Music
— Forms of Church — Unpopular position — Fidelity to Truth.
Pages 52-6r

ORGANIC HISTORY.

Persecution of Covenanters — First Settlement in America — Rev.
Alexander Craighead — His acceptance of Covenanter
principles — He leads them in Covenanting — Rev. John
Cuthbertson — Condition of Societies — Rev. Alexander
McDowell — Rev. Daniel McClelland — Rev, William Martin
— Revs. Matthevi^ Linn and Alexander Dobbin — Consti-
tution of the First Reformed Presbytery in America —
Revolutionary War — Covenanters were Whigs — Mecklenberg
Declaration of Independence — Declaration of Octorara —
Writer of National Declaration — Covenanters favor Re-
public— Loyal to the Colonies — William Martin and the
British — His imprisonment — Cause in the South — Consti-
tution defective — Infidelity — Enthusiasm of Covenanters —
Church Union — Seceders — Position of Associate Church —
Inconsistent with their beliefs — Agitating a Union — For-
mation of Associate Reformed Church — Defection of
Covenanter Ministers — Sentiments of Rev. Matthew Linn
— Basis of Union — Members of new body — William
Martin — Defection in Associate Reformed Church — Cove-
nanters formed into Societies — Rev. James Reid sent
from Scotland — Rev. James McGarragh — Rev. William
King — Rev. James McKinney — Scottish Committee — In-
surrection in Ireland — Emigrants to America — Covenan-
ters, not "United Irishmen" — Rev. William Gibson — Con-
stitution of Reformed Presbytery — Position of dissent
from United States Constitution — Slaveholders excluded —
Slavery in the South — Commissioner to Europe — Emis-
sion of Testimony — Dissenting Presbytery desire Union —
Deliverance on the Jury question — Draught of Covenant —
Terms of Communion — Book of Discipline — Directory for
Worship — Theological Seminary — Synod Constituted —
War of i8i2 — Oath — Defenders of Country — Dr. McLeod's
War Sermons — Argumentative part of the Testimony —

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Proposal for Covenanting — Sitting on Juries — Old Law
sustained — Formation of General Synod— Action on Slavery
and Secrecy — Correspondence with Presbyterian Church —
Criticism of Associate Church — Civil relations — Free Dis-
cussion— New Light on important subjects — Division of the
Church — The real issue — Historical position maintained
by the majority — Testimony on the subject — Sessional
Records — Constitutional Law — Pastoral Letter — Publication
of dangerous Documents — Some abandon principles — Check
put to defection — Pro re nata meeting of Eastern Sub-
ordinate Synod — Ministers suspended and libeled — In-
subordination to Church Courts — Disorderly Congregational
proceedings in New York — Regular meeting of Eastern
Subordinate Synod — Parties withdraw — They are cited
and suspended — General Synod of 1833 — A disturbance
by suspended Ministers — Synod constituted in another
Church — New School body organized — Comparison of
Terms of Communion — New School body abandon dis-
tinctive principles — Omit important paragraphs in Tes-
timony— Fail to bring up Testimony to meet present
evils — Their name a misnomer — Declension of New
School body — Position of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church — Retains the old position — Faithful application of
principles — Names erased from the roll — Education of
young men — Flourishing condition of the Church — Atti-
tude towards the Colonization Society- — Publication of
important Documents — Organization of Theological Sem-
inary— Seminaries at Coldenham and Allegheny — Slavery
question — Decline to attend a Convention of Churches —
Allegheny Seminary— Missions— Defection of two Ministers —
Voluntary Associations — The liquor traffic — The Deacon
question — Educational interests — Correspondence with
sister Synods in Europe — Draft of Covenant — New Min-
isters and organizations — Mission operations — The Deacon
controversy — Board of Domestic Missions — Change of
Seminary — Foreign Mission — Election of Missionaries — Es-
tablishment of Geneva Hall and Westminster College —
Defection of Foreign Missionary — Hayti Mission abandoned
— The Church and Slavery — Change of Theological Sem-
inary— Suspension of Seminary — Fugitive Slave Law —
Rev. William Wilson — Temperance — Conference with New
School bod)' — Missionaries — Organization of Seminary at
Allegheny — Slavery — Elective affinity — Basis of union with
New School body — Union never effected — Basis of union
with United Presbyterian Church — Addition to Testimony
— Abolitionists — Memorials to Congress — War of the Rebel-
lion— Attitude of the Church — Missions in the South — State

TABLE OF CONTENTS. xi

of the Country — Army Oath — Covenanters for the Union —
National Reform Association — Visit the President — Duty of
the Nation — Close of the War — Voting for Amendments —
Paper established — Holding Office in Canada — Education of
Colored race — Jury question — Geneva Hall — Sabbath
Schools — Secret Societies — Signing of Covenant — The Cove-
nant — Memorial Building — Homestead Oath — Allegheny
Seminary — Grangers — National Reform — Exchange of Pul-
pits— Conference with New School body — Various deliver-
ances— Church Fellowship — Removal of Geneva College —
— Covenanting — Temperance — Secrecy — Voting on Amend-
ments— National Reform — Baptism — Tokens — Deliverance
on voting on Amendments — Conference with Psalm-singing
Churches — Offerings — Hymns — Secret Societies — Tobacco
— Knights of Labor — Conducting public worship — Elec-
tion of Theological Seminary Professor — Students preach-
ing— Pastoral Letter — Jury Act — Condition of Church — Bi-
centenary. Pages 62-164

CONGREGATIONS AND SOCIETIES.

MARITIME PROVINCES.
St. John — Barnesville — Mill Stream — Moncton — Other Preaching

Stations — Amherst — Horton — Cornwallis — Wilmot. Pages. 165-175

NEW ENGLAND.
Houlton — New Hampshire — Ryegate — Barnet — Craftsbury — Top-
sham — Saint Johnsbury — Lowell — Boston — Connecticut.
Pages .., 175-186

CANADA WEST.
Ramsey — Perth — Carleton Place — Lochiel — Oneida — Hamilton —

Gait — Guelph — Toronto — Morpeth. Pages 187-193

NEW YORK.

New York City — Brooklyn — Newbvirgh — Coldenham — Argyle —
Troy — Lansingburgh — Albany — Schenectady— Duanesburgh
— Princetown — Gal way — Milton — Broad Albin — Johnstown
— Utica — New Hartford — Milford — Kortright — Bovina —
Walton — Colchester — White Lake — Syracuse — Rochester —
Buffalo — York — Caledonia — Galen — Clyde — Sterling — Lis-
bon. Pages. , 193-228

NEW JERSEY.

Perth Amboy — Persecution of Covenanters — Names of first Cover
nanters in America — Their Covenant and Testimony — Their
treatment — Dangerous voyage — Settlement in New Jersey —
Paterson — Newark. Pages 228-235

xii TABLE OF CONTENTS.

DELAWARE.
Wilmington. Page 235

PENNSYLVANIA.
Philadelphia — Cumberland Valley — Milton — Octorara — Muddy
Run — Pequea — Donegal — Colerain — Paxtang — Derry —
Lower Chanceford — Rock Creek — Junkin Tent — Carlisle —
Rocky Spring — Scotland — Green Castle — Conococheague —
Congregational Meetings — Rules — Certificates — Vari-
ous meetings — Petition to Ireland — Rev. James Mc-
Kinney — Societies — Dicipline — Cause in Cumberland Valley
— Ballibay — Clarksburgh — Bear Run and Mahoning —
Salem — Rehoboth — New Alexandria — Greensburgh — Brook-
land — Parnassus — Middletown — Pine Creek — Union — Oil
City — Oil Creek — Adamsville — Springfield — Centreville —
Shenango — Slippery Rock — New Castle — Little Beaver —
Beaver Falls — Pittsburgh — East End — Allegheny — Wilkins-
burgh — McKeesport — Monongahela — Miller's Run. Pages. 235-312-

WEST VIRGINIA.
Middle Wheeling. Pages 312-313

OHIO.
Youngstown — Greenfield — Londonderry — North Salem — Browns-
ville— New Concord — Muskingum — Tomica — Jonathan's
Creek — Utica — Mansfield — Sandusky — Miami — Rushsyl-
vania — Bellefontaine — Belle Centre — Macedon — Cedar-
ville — Xenia — Brush Creek — Beech Woods — Cincinnati.

Pages 313-333

MICHIGAN.

Cedar Lake — Detroit — Novi — Southfield — Fairgrove. Pages 333-335

INDIANA.
Garrison — Indianapolis — Walnut Ridge — Princeton — Bloomington

— Lake Eliza. Pages 335-342

ILLINOIS.
Old Bethel — Bethel — Church Hill — Elkhorn — Staunton. Pages... 342-346-

WISCONSIN.
Vernon — Waupaca. Pages 346-348

MINNESOTA.
Elliota— St. Paul— Lake Reno— Alexandria— Round Prairie. Pages 348-350

IOWA.
Sharon — Kossuth — Linn Grove — Morning Sun — Rehoboth — Wash-
ington— Burlington — Davenport — Hopkinton — Grove Hill —
Hickory Grove— Walnut City — Clarinda— Long Branch.
Pages 350-358-

TABLE OF CONTENTS. xiii

MISSOURI.

St. Louis — Sylvania — Cameron — Kansas City. Pages 358-360

KANSAS.
Olathe — Pleasant Ridge — Winchester — North Cedar — Eskridge —
Hebron — Tabor — Jewell — Holmwood — Sterling — Rochester
— Quinter— Burdett. Pages 360-364

NEBRASKA.
Wahoo — Superior — Beulah — Eckley. Pages 364-365

COLORADO.
Evans — La Junta — Denver. Pages 365-366

WASHINGTON TERRITORY.
Sunnydale — Kent. Page 366

CALIFORNIA.
Oakland — Santa Anna. Pages 366-367

COVENANTERISM IN THE SOUTH.

MARYLAND.
Baltimore. Pages 368-375

VIRGINIA.
Suffolk. Page 375

TENNESSEE.
Hepbzibah — Duck River — Rodgersville. Pages 375-377

ALABAMA.
Selma — Camden. Pages 377-378

GEORGIA.
Louisville. Page 378

NORTH CAROLINA.
Charlotte — Statesville. Pages 378-379

SOUTH CAROLINA.
Chester District — Mrs. Ellet's Sketch — War of Revolution —
Martin's Preaching — Preaching places — Names of old
families — Sepulchres — Slavery — Cause of emigration — Cov-
enanterism extinct in the South. Pages 379-398

THE CONGREGATIONS.
Alphabetically arranged. Pages 399-429

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

THE MINISTRY.

List of Portraits.

Beattie, Joseph 436

Black, John 440

Bowden, Samuel. 446

Carlisle, Samuel 454

Christie, James 456

Crawford, S. W 470

Crozier, John 474

Dodds, R.J 484

Donnelly, Thomas 487

Paris, D. S 498

Galbraith, John 509

George, H. H 513

Gibson, John 517

Gibson, Robert 519

Gregg, David 531

Johnston, J. B 547

Kennedy, James 559

McAllister, David 575

McClurkin, H. P 581

McCracken, Joseph 585

McKee, C. B 597

McKee, David 599

McLeod, Alexander 609

McMaster, Gilbert 617

Wylie, S. O

Metheny, David 624

Milligan, A. M 628-

Milligan, James 631

Milligan, J. C. K 635

Milroy, William 635,

Roberts, W. L 655.

Roney, Moses 659

Scott, David 663

Sloane, J. R. W 673

Sproull, Thomas 682

Sterrett, Samuel 690

Stevenson, Andrew 691

Stevenson, T. P 695

Stott, John 699

Thompson, J. R 706

Trumbull, CD 709

Wallace, James 711

Willson, D. B 720

Willson, J. M 721

Willson, J. R 722

Willson, S. M 728

Wylie, P. H 736

Wylie, Samuel 738

Wylie, S. B 741

742

SKETCHES OF MINISTERS

Acheson, T. H 430

Acheson, W. A 430

Allen, J. S 431

Allen, Nathaniel 432

Allen, R. C 433

Allen, T. J 433

Allen, W. C 434

Armour, J. M 434

Bayles, J. O 435

Beattie, Joseph 436

Beattie, J. M 437

Black, A. W 438

Black, John 440

Black, John, Jr 442

Black, J. A 442

Blackwood, James 443

Boggs, J. H 445

Bovard, J. A. F 445

Bowden, Samuel 446

Boyd, J. C 447

Boyd, P. P 448

Brown, James 449-

Buck, J. S 449

Cannon, John 451

Cannon, R. B 452

Carithers, W. W 453

Carlisle, J. F 454

Carlisle, Samuel 454

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Carson, J. F 456

Christie, James 456

Clarke, Alexander 459

Clyde, Robert 460

Coleman, E. M 461

Coleman, W. J 461

Conner, S. G 462

Cooper, Ebenezer 463

Coulter, D. H 464

Craighead, Alexander 464

Crawford, John 468

Crawford, S. W 470

Crowe, A. D 471

Crowe, S.J 473

Crozier, John 473

Crozier, John F 475

Crozier, John M 475

Cuthbertson, John 476

Dauerty, W. M 479

Diokson, J. M 479

Dill, J. W 481

Dobbin, Alexander 481

Dodds, Josiah 483

Dodds, R. J 484

Donnelly, Thomas 487

Douglas, James 489

Easson, Henry 491

Elder, T. M 492

Elliot, G. M 493

Elsey, E. G 494

Engles, W. M 494

Ewing, G. T 496

Faris, D. C 498

Faris, D. S 498

Faris, Isaiah 499

Faris, James 500

F'aris, J. C. K 501

Faris, J. M 502

Finley, J. M 503

Fisher, John 503

Foster, F. M 505

Foster, J. M 505

French, John 506

French, J. C. B 507

Fulton, W. S 507

Gailey, Francis 508

Galbraith, John 509

Galbraith, S. R 510

Gault, M. A. 511

Gayley, S. M 512

George, Henry. . ; 513

George, R. J 514

George, S. A 515

George, W. F 516

Gibson, John 517

Gibson, Robert 518

Gibson, William 521

Gill, Jonathan 524

Gillespie, W. J 525

Glasgow, W. M 526

Graham, David 527

Graham, John 529

Graham, William 530

Gregg, David 53°

Guthrie, T. C 53i

Hamilton, Joseph 533

Hanna, Thomas 534

Hargrave, Ruther 535

Hawthorne, Hugh 535

Hawthorne, John 536

Henderson, Joseph 537

Hill, J. R 538

Holmes, John 539

Hood, John 54°

Hunter, Joseph 54^

Huston, J. J 542

Hutcheson, Robert 542

Jerridinia, Jacoub 544

Johnston, Archibald 544

Johnston, A. W 54^

Johnston, J. B 547

Johnston, J. M 549

Johnston, J. R 55°

Johnston, Lewis 551

Johnston, N. M 552

Johnston, N. R 553

Johnson,' Robert 554

Johnston, S. D 556

Johnston, W. P 556

Kell, John 557

Kennedy, George 558

Kennedy, James 559

Kennedy, Joshua 560

Kilpatrick, Alexander 560

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

King, William 561

Laird, W. R 562

Latimer, J. R 563

Lawson, J. R 563

Linn, Matthew 564

Little, John 566

Love, James 567

Lusk, Robert 568

Lynd, John 570

Madden, Campbell 570

Martin, D. C 572

Martin, William 572

McAllister, David 574

McAuley, John 575

McBurney, G. R 577

McCartney, John 577

McClelland, Daniel 578

McClurkin, A. W 579

McClurkin, H. P 580

McClurkin, J. J 580

McClurkin, J. K 582

McClurkin, S. R 582

McClurkin, T. Z 583

McConnell, Thomas 583

McCracken, Joseph 584

McCready, R. H 585

McCullough, Boyd 586

McDonald, J. M 587

McDowell, Alexander 588

McElhinney, J. M 589

McFall, David 590

McFall, Thomas 590

McFarland, Armour 591

McFarland, A. J 592

McFarland, Joseph 592

McFarland, William 593

McFeeters, James 593

McGarragh, James 594

McKee, C. B 596

McKee, David 598

McKee, J. A 599

McKee, Robert 599

McKinney, James 600

McKinney, Robert 604

McKinney, Samuel 605

McKinney, William 606

McLachlane, James 606

McLeod, Alexander 608

McLeod, J. N 611

McMaster, A. S 612

McMaster, E. D 614

McMaster, Gilbert 616

McMaster, John 619

McMillan, Gavin 620

McMillan, Hugh 621

McMillan, W. W 623

McNaugher, J. W 624

Metheny, David 625

Middleton, John 626

Milligan, A. M., Sr 627

Milligan, A. M., Jr 629

Milligan, E. M 630

Milligan, James 630

Milligan, J. C. K 632

Milligan, J. R. J 633

Milligan, J. S. T 634

Milligan, O. B 635

Milroy, William 635

Milroy, William 636

Milroy, W. M 637

Montgomery, Andrew 638

Montgomery, R. C 639

Morton, J. W 639

Neill, James 641

Neill, William 642

Newell, J. R 643

Newell, John 644

Orr, R. G 645

Patton, James 646

Patton, Thomas 646

Pinkerton, J. L 647

Pinkerton, W. A 647

Pollock, J. T 648

Reed, H. W 648

Reed, Robert 649

Reed, R. C 650

Reid, Daniel 650

Reid, James 651

Reilly, John 653

Rice, John 654

Robb, T. P 655

Roberts, W. L 655

Robinson, Samuel 657

Roney, Moses 658

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Rusk, T. A 626

Samson, W. L. C 662

Scott, David 662

Scott, George 664

Shanks, W. M 665

Sharp, B.M 666

Sharpe, R.J 667

Shaw, D. J 668

Shaw, J. W 668

Shaw, S. G 669

Shields, Robert 670

Slater, William 671

Sloane, J. R. W 672

Sloane, William 676

Smith, E. M 677

Smith, J. C 678

Sommerville, R. M 678

Sommerville, William 679

Speer, J. A 681

Sproull, J. W 682

Sproull, R. D 682

Sproull, Thomas 6S3

Sproull, T. A 6S4

Sproull, T. C... 685

Sproull, William 686

Stavely, A. M 687

Steele, David 688

Sterrett, Samuel 690

Stevenson, Andrew 691

Stevenson, Hugh 692

Stevenson, S. M 693

Stevenson, T. P 694

Stewart, J. S 695

Stewart, J. W 695

Stewart, Robert 697

Stott, John 698

Stuart, A. C 69S

Symmes, J. H 700

Wylie, T. A. H...

Taylor, J. C 701

Teaz, John 702

Telfair, David 702

Temple, H. W 704

Thompson, D. G 704

Thompson, J. A 704

Thompson, J. R 705

Thompson, J. S 706

Thompson, R. M 706

Todd, A. C 707

Trumbull, C. D 708

Walkinshaw, Hugh 708

Wallace, James 710

Wallace, John 711

Wallace, Robert 712

Wallace, S. R 714

Wilkin, Matthew 714

Williams, J. B 715

Williams, Matthew 716

Williams, M. B 7^7

Willson, D. B 720

Willson, J. M 720

Willson, J. R 723

Willson, R. Z 727

Willson, S. M 729

Wilson, William 73°

Wright, Alexander 732

Wylie, J. H 733

Wylie, J. Milligan 734

Wylie, John M 734

Wylie, J. Ralston 735

Wylie, J. Renwick 735

Wylie, Oliver 73^

Wylie, P. H 737

W^ylie, R. C 73^

Wylie, Samuel 739

Wylie, S. B 74o

Wylie, S. O 743

744

STUDENTS NOT COMPLETING THE COURSE.

Abraham, R. H 747 Black, J. K 747

Acheson, J. J 747 Boxley, D. W 748

Barber, W. H 747 Conger, Joseph 748

Beattie, F. S 747 Gumming, William 74^

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Echols, J. H 748

Elder, J. M 748

Esker, Abood 748

Frazier, M. R 748

George, R. A 748

Gibson, R. C 749

Gibson, W.J 749

Gray, James 749

Hamilton, John 749

Hamilton, W. R 749

Huggart, T. S..! 749

Hutcheson, Martin 749

Johnston, J. H 750

McClelland, J. B 750

McKelvy, J. A 750

McKinley, Thomas 750

McKinney, Archibald 750

Willson, Z. G

Mogee, Alexander 750

Montgomery, S. D 750

Murphy, J. G 751

Neeley, Lorenzo 751

Nightingale, J. C 751

Purvis, L. B 751

Quarles, J. F "751

Robinson, John 751

Sloane, T. S , 752

Smith, S. F 752

Sproull, Theophilus 752

Sproull, W. 0 752

Stewart, G. E 752

Taggart, S. B 752

Thompson, William 752

Trumbull, Robert 753

Williams, C. L 753

753

THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY.
Constitution — Established in Philadelphia — Suspension— Colden-
ham — Allegheny — Cincinnati — North wood — Allegheny —
Professors — Students. Pages 753-755

LITERARY INSTITUTIONS.
Geneva Hall — Westminster College — Allegheny City College —

Knox Academy. Pages 755-759

View of Geneva College. Page 754

Photographs of Literary and Mission Buildings. Page 759

THE MISSIONS.

Foreign Missions.
Hayti — Syrian — Latakia — Aleppo — Tarsus — Cyprus.

760-764

Balph, J. M

Balph, E. J.......

Beattie, M. E...

Dodds, A. J

Dodds, E. M

Dodds, L. M

Dodds, W. A. S.
Easson, M. J. ..,
Edgar, M. B....,

SKETCHES OF MISSIONARIES

764

765

765

765
766
767
767
767
768

Galbraith, A. M 768

Jerridinia, H. C 768

Joseph, L. B 769

Martin, R. C 769

Metheny, E. G .
Metheny, M. E.
Sproull, E. C. ...
Sterrett, E. M. .
Wylie, M. R

769
770
770
771
771

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

DOMESTIC MISSIONS.

Port Royal — Fernandina — St. Augustine — Little Rock — Duvall's
Bluff — Natchez — Washington — Selma — Camden — New York
City — Chinese — Indian. Pages 772-777

SYNODS AND PRESBYTERIES.
General Meeting — Reformed Presbytery — List of Meetings — Dis-
organization— Reorganization of Reformed Presbytery —
List of Meetings — Constitution of Synod — List of Meet-
ings— Presbyteries : Illinois — Iowa — Kansas — Lakes —
Middle Committee and Presbytery — New Brunswick and
Nova Scotia — New York — Northern Committee and Presby-
tery— Ohio — Philadelphia — Pittsburgh — Rochester t- South-
ern Committee and Presbytery — Vermont — Western

Pages ^ 778-785

PUBLICATIONS.

Evangelical Witness" — "American Christian Expositor" —
"Albany Quarterly " — " Reformed Presbyterian " — " Cove-
nanter " — "Reformed Presbyterian and Covenanter" —
" Christian Statesman " — " Our Banner " — " College Cabi-
net " — " Monthly Advocate " — " Christian Nation " — " Guid-
ing Star" — "Herald of Mission News." Pages 785-788

"TiiK Idngdom is tho Lord's; nml IIo is the Governor among tlie
nations. * * King of kings and Lord of lords. * * Tlie wicked
shall bo turned into hell and the nations that forget dod. * * He
wise now, tluMefoic-, O ye kings. * * Kiss the Son. * * I'or tlie
nation and kingdom that will not serve Thee shall p(>rish. * * The
Lord reigiieth. * * Hy Me kings roign. * * Phe powers l)ia( l>e
are ordained of (iod. " — Tlw lUI>lt\

"Wk, the people of the United States, flo ordain and est.d)lish
this Constitution. " — Unilfil States Constitution.

"Till': ( i(>\(<rnini'nt of the I'nited Sialics of America, is not in any
sense, louuilcd on the Christian religion."- -T. S. Tiraty 7vil't Trif^o/i.

" In vain iloes the nation attempt to pnrchasu liberty with the best
blood of her citizens, while delivering it into the keeping of men un-
acijuainted with, or regardless of, the supreme legislative autluMity
of (lod. " — A'<-:'. ynttii-s AAA'inHcy.

" No consideration will justify the franiers of tl\e IVder.il (\>nsli-
tnlion and the administration of the Cio\enuiienl. in wilhholiling a
recognition of the Loril and llis .Vnointeil from the gr.ind charter
of the nation. " — A'^'. .l/cx<i/fJ<-r .)/,/,.•(>,/. />. />

"In tlie Cnited Stales the refus.il to ackiiowiedm- Cod in the Con-
stitiitioM has probably been more explicit than it e\er was in any
other nation. " — AVr. J.im.'s A', ll'i/hoii, /l />.

" liiK I'ederal Constitution of the United States does not recognize
the existence of Crtid, the Kiiij,' o( n.itions; * * and shall a nation
,ict as if independent of the ChhI of the Univei-se. and expect to be
guiltless? * * The principles of reformation are not fashionable.
They were once, however, consiilered as the glory of Presbyterians.
For civil and ecclesiastical reformation, for a glorious covenanted cause,
thousands bled and died. * * 1 have endeavored to advocate M<//
<;tn.\Y because I thought it the doctrine of tlu> Bible, and the cause
of Christ."— AV,". S,nnih/ A. //>•//>. /). D.

HISTORY OF THE

REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

IN AMERICA.

Historical Introduction.

THE Reformed Presbyterian Church in America is the
lineal descendant and true representative of the
Church of Scotland in her purest days, and embraces
in her Testimony the principles of the Second Reform-
ation as exhibited between the years 1638 and 1649.
The Presbyterian Church of Scotland was a Covenant-
ing Church, and the Reformed Presbyterian Church of
this age is not a branch of any Presbyterian body but
the remnant of the original stock. While the Synod
of this Church is among the small ecclesiastical assem-
blies, yet for that reason she should not be regarded
with reproach. Her principles are both scriptural and
unpopular, and neither the paucity of her members nor
the unpopularity of her principles prove that the position
of the church is unsound or impracticable. She claims
to be a Reformed Church, a Presbyterian Church, and

22 irisrORV OF THE REFORMED

a Covenanting Church ; and to fully substantiate this
claim a cursory review of the history of the Christian
church will be necessary.

From the earliest period in the world's history the
church of God has been a Covenanting Church, and
a dissenter from immoral constitutions of Church and State.
The antediluvians bore faithful testimony to the character
and moral government of God, and by the call of Abraham
this covenanting society received a more perfect organization.
The patriarchs were constant witnesses to the truth of God
against idolatry and immorality either national or individual.
Under the Mosaic dispensation also the nation of Israel
was brought into a solemn league and covenant with
God, and the Church erected in the wilderness was a
witnessing society for the rights of God. When the
*' fullness of time " had come, and the predicted Messiah
came into the world as the "Mes.senger of the Cove-
nant," He was a witness for the truth, and not only
bore constant testimony to His Sonship before Jewish
priests, but also claimed His right to the Headship over
the nations before the Roman government. These two
articles have formed the chief points of Christ's witnesses
in all ages, and are the cardinal principles of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church in this age. When Christ com-
missioned His apostles to go forth and preach the gospel,
He gave them to be witnesses for Him and to His
rights upon earth, even to the end of the world. The
commission then implies that every minister of Christ
is to bear like testimony. At the organization of the
Apostolic church and in accordance with the directions
of the Divine Head, members were to be received into

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 23

it by an expression of their belief in the Saviour, and
a confession of the scheme of grace as revealed in God's
Word, with a life and conversation as becomes the same
profession. In this the requirements of the Christian
church should be uniform. The government and order
•of the primitive church were evidently Presbyterian. It
was distinguished for the purity of its doctrines and
the simplicity of its worship. Nothing of human inven-
tion was tolerated and it was scriptural in all its appoint-
ments. In this system of government, moreover, the
Headship of Christ and the subjection of all things to Him
were clearly displayed. At an early period of the life
of this scriptural church and covenanting society were
the fires of persecution kindled, and they raged with
increased fury because many had not grown weary of
purity and witness-bearing. For three hundred years
were they persecuted under Jewish bigotry, until
Constantine the Great wrapped the imperial robe around
him, and signally overthrew the policy of the Roman
power, and established pure Christianity as the religion
of the empire. Under his eventful reign Christianity
spread rapidly, but co-incidently the spirit of Anti-Christ
was at work. The condition of the church was such
that men were not willing to return to the pure state
■of the primitive church, nor to become witnesses for
the rights of King Jesus. Preachers of the gospel were
lead to defection by vain philosophies and worldly
ambition. Discipline was relaxed and the lives of members
gradually became more corrupt. They had broken cove-
nant with God and iniquity was being visited upon them.
The union of Church and State doubtless promoted

24 IIIS'IORV OF THE REFORMED

defection and corruption, and the spiritualit}- of the
church became very low. The favors of the State soon
developed a hierarchical system of Prelacy, which system
was directly antagonistic to the teaching of the Apos-
tolic church. The same causes also gave rise to Papacy,
and the bishop of Rome assumed the title of the
Universal Bishop. Seemingly the whole world "wondered
after the beast," and the unmutilated Word of God
was not only prohibited to be read, but the worship
was conducted in an unknown tongue. During all these
periods of the prevalence of Papacy, there were faith-
ful witnesses for Jesus to be found. Before the papal
power had reached the Western church, God had raised
up the faithful Athanasius to contend against the Arian
heresy ; Vigilantius to expo.se the strongholds of super-
stitution, and the learned Augustine to overthrow the
Pelagian and Semi-Pelagian heresies.

Away to the north and west faithful witnesses for revealed
truth and scriptural church-life had been preserved, who-
uncompromisingly refused to hold communion with the
church of Rome. In England, Scotland and Ireland the
pure gospel was preached and the church conducted after
the Apostolic model. Patrick and Columba, with their con-
temporaries and successors, multiplied witnesses for Jesus
and established a church in opposition to Rome. Many
of these witnesses were denominated Ceilide, or servants
of God, and have been known in history as Culdees.
They were Covenanters in theory, Presbyterians in
government, and Reformed Presbyterians in sentiment.
They held firmly to the Word of God and supremacy
of Christ, and maintained a separate existence until the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2$

time of the Reformation. In parts of Europe, Roman
persecutors found faithful witnesses for the rights of
Christ, who opposed the Anti-christian system. The
Waldenses in the valleys of Piedmont, and the Albigenses
in the south of France, had continued their existence since
Apostolic times. They were a covenanting society separated
from, or rather never had been in connection with, the
church of Rome, and propogated a truly evangelical creed
and a Presbyterian form of government since the Apos-
tolic age. This fact is admitted by nearly every histo-
rian. But these witnesses for Christ were soon discovered
in vast congregations and caused to suffer most violent
and terrible persecution. Many of them were banished,
and, as so many sparks from the burning stake, they
kindled anew their principles in other parts of Europe.
They were afterward found in Germany, Bohemia, France
and t^ngland. In the fourteenth century eighty thou-
sand of these Covenanting Presbyterians were found in
Austria and maintained their principles to the death.
In the fifteenth century the Reformation from Popery
began, although its work is generally attributed to the
sixteenth century. Wyckliffe, John Huss, the Lollards,
and Jerome of Prague espoused the principles of the
covenanting Waldenses, and in their maintenance of
truth prepared the way for the Reformation. All those
in sympathy with the cause of pure religion formulated
a covenant, which was entered into by the whole Wal-
densian Church. Some of the reformers of this period
had been reared within the pale of the Romish Church
and experimentally knew the errors against which they hero-
ically contended. God brought out such eminent witnesses as

26 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Luther, Zwinglius, Melancthon, Calvin and Farel, who in
Germany, Switzerland and France were the effective instru-
ments in God's hand for propogating the cause of the
First Reformation, and shook Papal Europe to her very
foundations. As might be expected the Reformation met
with a great deal of opposition. The hands of the
reformers were held up by the Lutheran Church, which,,
in 1534, solemnly swore the famous League of Smalkalde.
In 1537, a similar covenant was sworn by the followers
at Geneva. Unhappily the Lutherans and Reformed differed
in some points, and especially in regard to sacraments,,
but with reference to the pure Word of God and the
errors of the Romish church they were agreed. The
Reformed churches of France and Hungary also swore
similar covenants and all were known as Protestants
against the corruptions of the church of Rome. The
cause of the Reformation did not find such rich soil
in England. The despotic Henry the Eighth was King.
He was a most irreligious man, and, in order to gratify
his own lusts, established the Church of England, and
arrogated to himself the power of a Pope at London,
Although this church was separated from that of Rome,,
yet it retained much of the doctrine and order of the Papacy.
The Reformation made some progress under the brief
reign of Edward the Sixth, but its friends were caused
to pass through fiery persecution under the reign of
bloody Mary. Upon the accession of Queen Elizabeth
the protestant faith was again restored, but through the Eras-
tian measures of the Queen the cause did not flourish. The
chief hindrance was from the fact that the anti-christian hier-
archy of the2Romish church was retained almost unaltered

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2/

in the Established Church of England. For all intents
and purposes it zvas Romish, and the bitter enemy of
the Reformation. There were some again in England
who contended for purity in doctrine and government,
who were called Puritans, and because they would not
take the communion of the corrupt English church, entered
the Tole of Dissoitei's. The Reformation began to spread
rapidly in Scotland in the early part of the sixteenth
century, and owed little or nothing to the favor of
the state. God raised up several eminent witnesses for
the truth who suffered martyrdom, and, notwithstanding
the fact that they sealed their testimony with their own
blood, the truth continued to progress. Among these
faithful witnesses were Patrick Hamilton, George Wishart
and John Knox. The latter returned from the Continent
in 1555, when the cause of the Reformation was languishing,
and he was the means of awakening the multitude by
his powerful preaching, and caused the Queen to fear
his prayers more than an army of soldiers. Through his
indomitable courage and consecrated devotion to the
cause of the Reformation the people entered into several
solemn covenants for the purpose of uniting the friends
of the cause. Various covenants adapted to the times
were sworn at Edinburgh in 1557; at Perth in 1559;
at Stirling in 1 560 ; and at Leith in 1 562, in which
they pledged their lives and their substance to maintain
the cause of Christ.

In 1560, the Parliament abolished Popery, and the first
General Assembly emitted the First Book of Discipline^
fixing and defining the government and order of the
church after a scriptural and Presbyterian plan. In I578'»

28 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

a Second Book of Discipline was prepared and adopted and
the Presbyterian Reformation was fully established. The
most memorable step in the progress of the Reforma-
tion was the adoption of the NATIONAL Covenant of
Scotland. It was drawn up by Rev. John Craig of
Edinburgh, and was the nation's solemn protest against
Popery and the bond for the maintenance of the Reformed
faith. It was sworn and subscribed by the King and
most of the nobility with their households, in 1581.
In all these covenants it is expressly agreed that the
"Bible should be the supreme law, and that nations
should frame their laws according to the Divine standard ;
that there is a conscience toward God paramount to
human control, and the Word of God is the rule for
the government of the conscience ; that there is no
lord of conscience but the Lord Jesus Christ who alone
is the Head of the Church and the lawful Governor
among the Nations ; that it is the duty of every nation,
as well as the individual, to incorporate these principles
in its constitution and live a life in conformity to this
profession."

In 1590, the National Covenant was again subscribed.
In 1 592, the Presbyterian form of church government
was ratified by the King and parliament, and this has
been denominated the GREAT CHARTER. In 1 596, the
General Assembly renewed the National Covenant again,
at which time over four hundred ministers and elders
with uplifted hands to God solemnly engaged in His
name to purge the church of all corruption. This was
a reviving time from the presence of the Lord, and
the Reformation was in the meridian of its life.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 29

Partly by craft and partly by arbitrary interference with
•ecclesiastical courts, James attempted to overthrow the
Scottish Reformation and establish Episcopacy. This
perfidious ruler favored Popery, interfered with the election
of members to the highest judicatory of the church, and
introduced prelacy in 1610. In 1618, the "Five Articles
of Perth" were forcibly carried and ratified, and because
some ministers refused to subscribe to these Popish
requirements, they were ejected from their charges and
visited with heavy penalties. At the accession of Charles
the First to the throne, in March, 1625, the Presbyterian
Church of Scotland witnessed a deadly foe, and his deter-
mination was to destroy every vestage of Presbyterianism
and compel them to conform to the English Episcopal Liturgy.
In 1536, a Liturgy and Book of Ecclesiastical Canons were
introduced, and had the effect of abolishing the ecclesiastical
polity of the Church of Scotland. Lamentably too many com-
plied with these prelatic innovations and arbitrary measures.
These tyrannical proceedings aroused the independent
spirit of many of the Scotch, and, after earnest deliberation
and fervent prayer, they resolved to flee to the strength
received by their ancestors, and took steps to renew the
National Covenants. The Covenants were the source of
Scotland's strength and the crown of her glory ! The
National Covenant had served a good purpose in con-
summating the First Reformation, and it was brought into
service in the Second.

To now adapt it to the circumstances of the church
and nation, Archibald Johnston specified several acts of
former Parliaments to prove that the course taken by the
Covenanters was constitutional ; and Alexander Henderson

30 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

applied the sacred bond to the condemnation and rejection
of all prelatical innovations. They say in this bond :

"We promise and swear by the great name of the Lord our God,
to continue in the profession and obedience of the true religion ; that
we shall defend the same, and resist all those contrary errors and cor-
ruptions according to our vocation, and to the utmost of that power
which God hath put in our hands, all the days of our life."

And they also declare :

•'We shall, to the utmost of our power, stand to the defence of our
Sovereign, the King, in the defence and preservation of the aforesaid
true religion, liberties, and laws of the kingdom."

And with regard to the original covenant that was now
renewed, they said :

" The present and succeeding generations in this land are bound to
keep the aforesaid national oath and subscription inviolate."

The Covenant was now sworn and subscribed at Grey-
friar's Church in Edinburgh, March i, 1638, by sixty
thousand persons, amid scenes of joy and sorrow. They
laid the precious document upon the mossy tombs, and
many wrote their names with blood from their own veins,
while others were but permitted to subscribe initials, because
the document was full, and there was no more room.
The renewing of the Covenant was followed by the happiest
effects and manifest tokens of the Divine blessing. It was
the means of awakening the people to their vows and the
signal overthrow of Episcopacy. The Covenanters acted
with prudence and decision in demanding the General
Assembly to redress their grievances, and a meeting of
Parliament to rectify disorders. This assembly met in the
city of Glasgow, November 20, 1638, and was presided
over by the great Alexander Henderson. This assembly
condemned the "Five Articles of Perth," the Liturgy

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IX AMERICA. 3 1

and Canons, the Book of Ordination, the High Commission^
Court, and the civil places and powers of churchmen.
Prelacy was rejected, bishops and prelatical leaders were
deposed and excommunicated. The renovation of the
Covenant was approved ; the Presbyterian form of govern-
ment was fully restored ; the power of the church to
convene in her annual assembly was granted, and the
right of the church to preserve order, discipline, educa-
tion and religious worship was acknowledged. These were
among the purest days of the Covenanting Presb}'terian
Church of Scotland, and the faithful witnesses for Jesus
were triumphant in their rights and liberties. Although
armies were brought down to crush the success of the
Covenanters and to restore prelac}', they were ineffectual
in destroying the witnesses, and the work of the Scottish
Reformation was fully confirmed by Parliament in 1640.
The exiled ministers were recalled, the order of the
church restored, and the ordinances of religion were again
dispensed to the people to the utter dismay of the
prelates, and Spottiswood, Archbishop of St. Andrew's,
mournfully exclaimed, "Now, all that we have been doing
these thirty years by past is at once thrown down."

While the cause was flourishing in Scotland, the Cove-
nanters in Ireland were inhumanly massacred. Charles
the First closed his ears against the cry for help, and
he was justly suspicioned for his complicity with the
Romish power.

By an application of the English Parliament, June 12,
1643, an assembly of learned and godly men was called,
composed of one hundred and twenty ministers and thirty
elders, the majority of which were strict Presbyterians,

32 ■ HISTORY OF THK REFORMED

This was called the WESTMINSTER Assembly, and met
in the Jerusalem Chamber, Westminster, London, July
I, 1643, and continued its sessions for a period of jfiive
years, six months and twenty-two days. They drew
up from the Word of God the Confession of Faith,
the Larger and Shorter Catechisms, a Form of Church
Government and a Directory for Worship. These all
received the sanction of the P^nglish Parliament and
were adopted by the General Assembly of the Church
of Scotland. A joint application by the Parliament
and Westminster Assembly was made to the Conven-
tion of P^states in Scotland and the General Assembly,
August 17, 1643, to enter into a SOLEMN LEAGUE
AND Covenant, embracing the civil and religious in-
terests of the three kingdoms. A draft was made by
Alexander Henderson and cheerfully subscribed by the
Assembly of Divines at Westminster, by both Houses
of Parliament, and by persons of all ranks in P^ngland.
.It was then carried over into Ireland and signed gen-
erally by the congregations in the province of LHster.
This famous document bound the United Kingdoms to
the preservation of the Reformed religion, to its doc-
trines, discipline and government according to the Word
of God. It simply brought the Church back to its
Scriptural basis and its allegiance to King Jesus and
His Law in all transactions, civil and ecclesiastical. Had
it not been for the Solemn League and Covenant, the
three Kingdoms would have been cast into absolute
despotism, and the liberty and civilization of the world
would have received an irrecoverable shock. The great
principles of this sacred bond are those of God's Word,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IX A>H':RICA. 33.

and nothing more nor less. While England was not
quite ready, but should have been, to fully adopt them
as her principles of national government, yet they are
none the less Scriptural, and there will a time come
when all the Kingdoms of the earth will be united under
a similar and one grand Solemn League and Covenant ;
when God's Anointed shall be practically acknowleded
King of nations ; and when these Scriptural principles
of the heavenly-minded Covenanters of Scotland shall
gloriously triumph. It cannot be otherwise, for the
nations that neglect or refuse to enter into such a cove-
nant with the King of Kings shall perish. No inter-
national document has ever been so -much misrepresented
and maligned as the Solemn League and Covenant.
Statesmen should pause and read it carefully, compare
it to the demands of God's Law, and fully digest what
is in it, before they vent their eloquence in undue criti-
cism. A sacred principle was then, and by this docu-
ment infused, into the heart of that nation, which has
never perished ; and, having taken root in the new em-
pire of America, ma}- be regarded as the dawn of a
better day for the cause of King Jesus. The Covenanters
never attempted to force Presbyterianism upon England
or any other nation, for they entered into the Covenant
without an}^ such stipulations, and it has always been
contrar}' to their principles to force Christians to the
acceptance of any position. But they do feel it their
duty to teach men and nations their allegiance to Christ
and to use every legitimate means to bring them to an
acceptance and acknowledgment of the same.

James the First had signed the first National Cove-
nant, and Charles the Second, on being crowned at

34 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Scone, January i, 1651, solemnly swore to keep both
the National and Solemn League and Covenant. And
when the oath to defend the Church of Scotland was
.administered to him, kneeling and holding up his right
hand, he uttered the following solemn vow : " By the
Eternal and Almighty God, who liveth and reigneth
forever, I .shall observe and keep all that is contained
in this oath."

A blessing followed the course of the Church at this
time, and many of the breaches in Church and State
were healed. The Solemn League and Covenant was
a necessity, and not until all nations are bound to-
gether and to God b}- a holy Covenant, and true liberty
flowing from Bible principles recognized, will universal
peace prevail. The attainments of the Second Reforma-
tion are worthy of record. The supreme Headship of
Christ over the Church was exhibited ; the Church was
priviledged to call her own assemblies ; the policy of
the government was brought into conformity to God's
Word ; the nation owned its allegiance to King Jesus ;
and rulers were to be set up who should be God's
ministers for good and a terror to evil doers. This
was the church's purest period and the nation's happiest
hour. The object of the existence of the Covenanter
Church in America as true witnesses for the royal
perogatives of King Jesus, is to bring this nation to
the enjoyment of the blessings and duty of this period
in the life of the British nation. It is the required
attitude of every church and nation to its Divine Head.

The period in which the nation continued to avow
and practically apply the principles of the Reformation,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IX AMERICA. 35

Avas too brief to fully test the blessings of the nation
whose God is the Lord. The beauty of the Covenanted
Reformation was soon marred by the duplicity of an
unprincipled king and his followers. England was the
first to make defection, because the danger which threat-
ened her civil liberty was past, and she imagined that
she no longer needed the help of the King of Heaven.
Scotland soon also broke her solemn covenant engage-
ments and departed from her attainments. The inva-
sion of England, in 1648, by the Duke of Hamilton's
army, was a wilful breach of the Solemn League and
Covenant, and was afterwards condemned by both the
Parliament and General Assembly. Charles the Second
was totally unworthy of the homage of a loyal people,
and happy would they have been had they never placed
the crown upon him. The people had committed their
trusts into the hands of a treacherous man. There
was undue attachment to the house of Stuart, which
ultimately lead to untold calamities. The King was
forced to exile, and Oliver Cromwell invaded Scotland
wdth an English army, and gained a victory at Dunbar.
Under Cromwell's usurped authority, and by intrigue,
plans were formed to overthrow the Constitution. The
faithful Presbyterians considered that they were bound
to adhere to the Constitution ; and, because they opposed
the malignants and their policy, were called protestors.
Cromwell died in September, 1658, and his son Richard
succeeded him. He was wanting in capacity and ambi-
tion, and Charles the Second was restored to the throne
in May, 1660. From this date to that of the Revolution
Settlement in 1688, the period is denominated the "killing

36 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

times." Now begin the sufferings of the Church of Scotland r
and the history of this period may well be written in
characters of blood. In i66i, the Parliament required
an oath of unlimited allegiance from all members instead
of a subscription to the Covenants. The order and
government of the Church were reversed ; bishops were
restored ; all proceedings of the Church and State on
behalf of Reformation from 1638 to 1649 ^vere pro-
nounced treasonable ; the Covenants, National and Sol-
emn League, were pronounced unlawful oaths ; and all
civil and ecclesiastical acts were regarded null and void.
The covenants were ordered to be burned in public at
Edinburgh, as they had been done at London ; and all
those who owned the covenants were subjected to the
penalties of treason. Nearly four hundred ministers of
the Presbyterian Church were driven from their congre-
gations b)' an act of the Privy Council. The whole work
of the Reformation was overturned, and the Act of
Supremacy, making the King judge in all matters civil
and ecclesiastical, paved the way for the terrible perse-
cution which immediately followed. Amid these bloody
persecutions the Covenanter Church came into promi-
nence as the faithful witnesses of the great principles
of the Reformation. They bore constant testimony for
the divine authority of the Presbyterian Church as con-
trasted with Prelacy ; for the exclusive Headship of the
Lord Jesus Christ over the Church ; for the supreme
authority of the Mediator and His Law over the rulers
of the nation ; for the perpetual obligation of the
Covenants ; together with the rights and duties of sub-
jects owning the authority of Christ to resist those

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 37

wicked rulers who had usurped their authority and
trampled under their feet the rights and liberties of
a religious and covenanting people. Such was the testi-
mony which the Covenanters bore, and sealed it with
their blood. Among the first victims of this irresponsi-
ble power were the Marquis of Argyle and Rev. James
Guthrie, staunch Presbyterians and resolute defenders of
the cause of the Redeemer. No less than twenty thou-
sand Presbyterian and Covenanting witnesses suffered
martyrdom in various ways, and many were banished
to America and Jamaica ; and upwards of two thousand
godly ministers were banished from their congregations
in one day. Some renounced the Covenanted cause, but
those who continued faithful were driven and chased like
partridges on the mountains. The persecutions were
horrible in their character, and one cannot read the his-
tory of this period without feeling his blood boil at the
atrocious slaughter of the Covenanters by the thousands.
They refused to wait upon the ministrations of curates
who had been thrust upon them by the bayonet, and if
they were found waiting upon any of the ejected Presby-
terian ministers either in private houses or conventicles,
they were heavily fined and cruelly punished. Among
the principal non-conforming ministers were Richard
Cameron, John Welsh, Thomas Douglas and John Kid,
and a reward was offered for the heads of these faithful
divines, dead or alive. Even to the death the martyrs
of Jesus bore testimony against their persecutors, and
when given an opportunity to speak in their courts, re-
plied to the perjured prelates in the following manner :
" Every immoral constitution is disapproved of God. No

38 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

man ought to swear allegiance to a power which God
does not recognize. All kings are commanded to promote
the welfare of the Church, and those who own allegiance
to Christ cannot consistently pray for the prosperity of
the Church's enemies, or for the establishment of thrones
founded upon iniquity. It is certainly the duty of
Christians to be meek and peaceable members of civil
society. If they are permitted to enjoy their lives, their
property, and especially their religion, without being
required to make any sinful compliances, it is right that
they should behave peaceably and not involve society in
confusion, even though the power of the empire in which
they reside be in evil hands. ?>ery burden which God
in His Providence brings upon them, they must cheer-
fully bear. But never are Christians called upon by
their God to owri as His ordinance anything which is
contrary to His Law. The civil powers of which He
approves are a terror to them who do evil. Tyrants
and persecutors, usurpers and despisers of religion may
be set up in His holy and just Providence to answer
valuable purposes in His hand, but He himself declares
in His Word that such Kings are set up not by Him.
The Pagan Roman government is described in Revela-
tion as the empire of the dragon, and all the kings
that support anti-Christ are said in the same infallible
Word to have received from Satan their authority. God
has declared their overthrow and destruction, and no
Protestant should recognize them as the ordinance of God
to which they must yield conscientious support. The
present King, Charles the Second, has violated the
Constitution of Scotland ; he has broken the covenant

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 39

which he made with God and man ; he has claimed as
an essential part of royal perogative, a blasphemous
supremacy in the Church ; he has overturned our ecclesi-
astical order ; banished the faithful ministry, and perse-
cuted the most virtuous inhabitants of the land. Such a
perjured usurper and profligate tyrant cannot be con-
sidered as a lawful magistrate by the Reformed Presby-
terian Covenanters."

These were the sentiments of the martyrs of Jesus, and
for these principles they freely gave their lives. Their
position was exceedingly unpopular, but in it were the
germs of future glory and greatness. Like John
the Baptist, they were the forerunners of greater
things, and like John the Baptist, many of them
were beheaded. For over twenty years this cruel
persecution lasted, and the Covenanting Church was re-
duced to a few ministers and members. As the faithful
remnant of the Church of Scotland in her purest days,
they continued to assemble for worship in such places
as they could, and their courts of judicature were pre-
vented from rfteeting. They made several bold declara-
tions of their principles, and aroused the indignation of
the King. At the first anniversary of the return of the
King, Charles the Second, May 27, 1679, bonfires had
b>een kindled in Rutherglen in commemoration of the
restoration. The Covenanters repaired to the scene, ex-
tinguished the fires, and burned the Acts of Parliament
and the Council as the Covenants had been burned.
They formulated the notable " Rutherglen Declaration
and Testimony," and after fixing it to the market cross,
peacefully retired. This was regarded as open rebellion

40 niSTORN' OF THE REFORMED

again.'jt the power, and produced the fiercest indignation
among the prelatic party. It was among the first fearless
declarations of the principles of the Covenanters, and
lead to the battle of Drumclog, where Graham of Claver-
house was defeated. The Covenanters also issued the
" Queensferry Paper" in June, 1680, in which they de-
clared : " We do declare that we will set up over our-
selves, and over what God shall give us power of, govern-
ment and governors according to the Word of God ; that
we shall no more commit the government of ourselves
and the making of laws for us to any one single person,
this kind of government being most liable to inconven-
iences and aptest to degenerate into tyranny." This
is .strong language, and a bold sentiment of Republican-
ism. This was burning the bridge behind them, and they
neither asked nor received any favors from the prelatic
power or ministry. The Covenanters hereafter kept
themselves aloof from prelatic assemblies and worshipped
among themselves. Holding fa.st to the Covenants and
the rights of the Church which had been established by
the King and all subjects, they passed just sentence upon
all backsliders and defectionists from the King to the
humblest member of the once established Church. Rev.
Donald Cargill excommunicated Charles the Second and
six other noted profligates, September 17, 1680, in the
presence of a vast congregation. They were guilty of
the most atrocious crimes, and justly dealt with, but
they were regarded as fit members of the Episcopacy.
This again excited the blood-thirsty persecutors to frenzied
madness. Richard Cameron, who was the leader of the
Covenanters and a most fearless and pious man, fell at

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 4 1

Airsmoss, July 22, 1680, as a victim of the diabolical
power. The blood-stained standard was not allowed to
trail, and was borne aloft by Donald Cargill, until he
also was apprehended and executed at Edinburgh, July
27, 1 68 1. This left the Covenanters without a minister,
but the followers were just as faithful to their King and
the attainments of the Covenanting Church. They im-
mediately organized a system of societies among them-
selves and met as often as they could. Correspondents
from all the societies met in a general meeting, usually
every three months, and determined the course of the
whole body, but never assumed to dispense any official
work. The minutes of these General Meetings were
kept by Michael Shields and are published in the " Faith-
ful Contendings." While they were deprived of public
ministrations and sealing ordinances, the Covenanters could
not conscientiously be administered unto by any minister
who had taken "the indulgence." Mr. James Renwick,
one of their worthy young men and a youth of good
education, was sent to the University of Groningen,
Holland, where he studied theology, and was licensed
and ordained by the Classis of Groningen, May 10, 1683.
The same fall he returned to Scotland, and, as the sole
minister of the Covenanters, labored faithfully for the
rights of Jesus and the liberties of his people. He suffered
many annoyances and was frequently outlawed and per-
secuted. Every person was forbidden by the edict of the
tyrannical King " to harbor him and his followers, or
supply them with meat or drink ; but to hunt and per-
sue them out of all their dens, caves and most retired
deserts, and to raise the hue and cry after them." Not-

42 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

withstanding these dangers and cruelties, the Covenanters
kept March 4, 1685, as "a day of thanksgiving unto the
Lord for the wonderful proofs of His love and good will,
manifested to a scattered and distressed remnant in this
land, by His delivering them in several places from the
power and rage of enemies when they were ready to
swallow them up." By the death of Charles the Second,
they enjoyed a brief breathing spell, and improved the
precious time by preparing the famous " Sanquhar Dec-
laration." and nailing it to the market cross* In 1682,.
Rev. Alexander Peden was called from Ireland, and
assisted Mr. Renwick until his death, January 26, 1686.
In December, 1686, Alexander Shields, who had been
licensed by some Presbyterian ministers in London,,
espoused the despised cause of the Cameronians. Mr.
William Boyd, educated in the Netherlands by the Cove-
nanters, was licensed by the Classis of Groningen in
September, 1687, and all these held forth the rights of
" Christ's Crown and Covenant " with fearlessness and
power. Rev. James Renwick, the last martyr to the
sacred cause of Scotland, was executed February 17,
1688, for his devotion to the Crown rights of King
Jesus. His charge was : " You, James Renwick, have
shaken off all fear of God and respect and regard to
his majesty's authority and laws ; and having entered
yourself into the society of some rebels of most damn-
able and pernicious principles and disloyal practices ;
you took upon you to be a preacher to those traitors
and became so desperate a villain that you did openly

*For many of these notable documents, and the details of incidents,
the reader is referred to any reliable history of the Church of Scotland.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 43

and frequently preach in the fields, declaiming against
the authority and government of our sovereign lord, the
King ; denying that our most gracious sovereign, King
James the Seventh, is lawful King of these realms ; as-
serting that he was a usurper, and that it was not
lawful to pay cess or taxes to his majesty ; but that
it was lawful and the duty of subjects to rise in arms
and make war against his majesty and those commis-
sioned by him." What is asserted was true ; for
the Covenanters held the principle that " the abuse of
power abrogates the right to use it." With few ex-
ceptions, all Protestants accept this principle. Thomas
Lining, also educated by the Covenanters, was ordained
by the Classis of Embden, in August, 1688, after an
examination of twenty-one days. Revs. Shields, Boyd
and Lining maintained the faithful Covenanted testimony
until the Revolution. Those Covenanters residing in
Ireland were ministered unto by the revered David
Houston. The Revolution Settlement of 1688, which
dethroned James the Second and placed the crown upon
William, Prince of Orange, is a memorable period, and
one worthy of careful consideration in the history of
the Reformed Presbyterian Church. The two hundredth
anniversary of this event was celebrated by the Cove-
nanter Church in America, as in other lands.

All true hearted Presbyterians looked with favor upon
the Prince of Orange, and regarded the circumstances,
which placed the crown upon his head as a good omen
and the dawn of a better day for Scotland. It was.
regarded as a Divine interposition in behalf of a loyal
people, and the course pursued fully vindicated some

44 IIISTOkV OF THE REFORMED

of the principles held by the Covenanting witnesses.
The Scottish convention passed the following : " That
King James, by his abuse of power, had forfeited all
title to the crown, and that it be conferred upon the
Prince of Orange." The English Parliament also de-
clared " that King James the Second, having endeavored
to subvert the Constitution by breaking the original con-
tract between the King and the people, did abdicate
the throne." Now it is plain that both these acts estab-
lish these two principles, " that the abuse of power
destroys the right to exercise it ; and that a people
may depose their rulers." These same principles dissolved
the union between the Colonies and Great Britain, and
gave the United States their independence. The same
principles now lead thousands of Covenanters to sacri-
fice their lives, and the principles will be admitted as
sound by ever}- intelligent reader. But the hopes of
the faithful Covenanting witnesses were doomed to speedy
disappointment. While the Presbyterian system was es-
tablished in Scotland, the Church was left under Eras-
tian control. The Revolution Settlement was unsatis-
factory in many respects. It was characterized by
several flagrant errors. The Covenants .were blasphe-
mously cast aside as worthless ; the civil institutions no
longer pretended to possess scriptural qualifications ;
and prelacy was retained in the National Church. If
the Revolution of 1688, which overturned the house of
Stuart, justified the course of those who rejected the
authority upon the principle now accepted by all, then
certainly the Covenanters were justified in rejecting the
"settlement" of King William when he openly vio-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 45

lated the very principles which brought him to the
throne. He wilfully betrayed the very cause he sol-
emnly swore to defend. Because the Covenanters re-
garded an oath of vast importance and binding until
the ends for which it was made were accomplished ;
because they, and others, solemnly swore to adhere to
the doctrine and order of the Church of Scotland as
constituted between the years 1638 and 1649; because
they were sworn to oppose Popery, Prelacy and Eras-
tianism as all the Kings and subjects were bound ;
because the crown was offered to the new sovereign
without the proper and required scriptural qualifica-
tions ; because the evil institution, against which the
whole Church of Scotland had borne constant testi-
mony, was interwoven into the policy of King William ;
and because he became the acknowledged head of the
Church, and exercised authority over it contrary to
the Word of God and the previously avowed position
of the Church of Scotland, the Reformed Covenanting
Church publicly protested against the ''settlement" and
remained separate from it, both in its civil and ec-
clesiastical relations. Their grounds of dissent are those
of reason and justice. The Reformed Presbyterian
Church, or because of its attachment to the Cove-
nants, the Covenanter Church, of this day, occupies
the same position as the Church of Scotland did
between the years 1638 and 1649, and which was the
purest and most blessed period in its history. The
Covenanters hold that the Covenants were binding upon
those who solemnly swore them, and who are repre-
sented in them, and they are not willing to speedily

46 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

relinquish the testimony for which the life-blood of
thousands of their brethern was sacrificed. While they
stood aloof from the government because of principle
and the reasons heretofore mentioned, as peaceful and
law-abiding citizens they claimed the right of the protec-
tion of their lives and property, and paid all just dues in
taxes, and bearing arms in defence of their country.
Those in Scotland who held these principles of Bible civil
government as they had always been maintained by a
true scriptural policy, hoped for a reformation and a
return to former attainments. As an expression of
their hopes, at the first General Assembly after the
Revolution "settlement" held in 1690, the Covenanter
ministers, Revs. Shields, Boyd and Lining, presenting a
paper asking the Assembly to carefully examine their
position, to acknowledge and confess their sin of Cov-
enant breaking, and the nation's sin of defection from
the previous attainments. This they not only refused
to do, but fully embraced the policy of the govern-
ment, and subsequently deposed the Rev. John McMillan,.
a Presbyterian minister and a member of their own
court, for no other cause than pleading for the obli-
gations of the Covenants which they had solemnly
sworn, and now violated with impunity.

In 1691, Revs. Thomas Lining and William Boyd
made defection, and after being admonished for their
faithfulness to the Covenanters, were received into the
Established Church. After having preached the Gospel
and held the principles of the Covenanting Church for
several years at the risk of their lives, they could not
withstand the unpopularity of their cause. They evea

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 47

persuaded Rev. Alexander Shields, the author of "The
Hind let Loose," to leave the glorious principles
he had so ably defended, and he also joined the
Established Church. Rev. David Houston, in Ireland, was
now the sole minister of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church, and he held her principles intact until his death.
Alexander Shields continued in his course of defection
and became a chaplain in an army which fought under
the Pope, and he died abandoned and distressed in
Jamaica. The Covenanters were without a minister for
sixteen years, and continued to hold that it was in-
consistent with their position to wait upon the minis-
trations of a minister who had been unfaithful to
Jesus and his solemn vows. They scrupulously con-
tended for the whole truth once delivered to the saints,
organized themselves into praying societies, and sup-
plicated earnestly and importunately the Good Shepherd
to send them a pastor for the scattered flock. They
watched with interest the contendings of the Rev.
John McMillan, who, until 1703, sought a recognition
of the obligations of the Covenants, and had failed.
Believing that he had received his commission to
preach from Christ and not from men, and that he
had been unjustly deposed by the Established Church,
he resumed his ministrations among his former con-
gregation, who cordially received him and embraced his
views of the Covenants. After frequent conferences and
serious deliberation, Mr. McMillan acceded to the Re-
formed Presbyterian Church in October, 1706, and
began his labors among them in December, 1707. His
labors were greatly blessed among scattered societies.

48 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and many were built up in their most holy faith.
About this time, Mr. John McNeil, a licentiate of the
Established Church, and who had been deprived of the
priviledge of preaching in that body because of his
fidelity to Reformation principles, also joined himself
to the Covenanting Church, and assisted Mr. McMillan
in displaying a banner because of truth. They drew
up a Protestation and Declinature, in which they clearly
set forth the principles of the Covenanting Church,
and their reasons of dissent. The following is the title
of this notable document : Protestation and Testimony
of the United Societies of the Witnessing Remnant of the
Anti-popish, Anti-prelatic, Anti-crastian, Aiiti-sectarian,
True Presbyterian Church of Christ in Scotland, against
the sinful Incorporating Union luith England and their
British Parliament, Concluded and Established, May, ijof.
This famous document and many other copies of the
original manuscripts of a similar nature, are in the
possession of the author. In 1708, another paper en-
titled "Protestation, Declinature and Appeal," was pre-
pared and signed by these ministers, in which they
-clearly exhibit their reasons for dissent from the Re-
volution Church and declare their unfaltering attach-
ment to the standards of the once pure Church of
Scotland. In 1707, the union of Scotland and England
was effected, and in 171 1, patronage was restored.
These steps gave additional evidence of apostacy in
the Church and Nation, and the Covenanters felt it
their duty to take another stand against the incoming
tide of Prelacy and Papacy. To this end, and to
•strengthen their hearts, they renewed the Covenants at

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 49'

Auchinsaugh, Lanarkshire, July 23, 171 2. All the
societies assembled for this important transaction, and
with their right hands lifted up to Heaven, solemnly
pledged themselves to be for God, and not for another.
This act of Covenanting was followed by a blessing.
As Mr. McNeil was never ordained, Mr. McMillan was
the only minister of the Covenanters for over thirty
years. He was faithful in visiting the different locali-
ties where the societies assembled and preached to
them with great power. While there was defection all
around him and reproach cast upon him for his fidelity
to a persecuted remnant of Christ's witnesses, he was
unmoved in his course, and is an example of moral
heroism unparalled in the history of the Christian
Church. He was constantly treated with disrespect by
Church and State, yet held fast the true position and
the attainments to which every Church and Nation
must reach, viz : allegiance to the Lord Jesus Christ
as the Divine Head and King. In November, 1733'
Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, who was subsequently joined
by Revs. James Fisher, Alexander Moncrieff and William
Wilson, seceded from the Established Church on ac-
count of the evils flowing from patronage, and other
tyrannical measures, and constituted the Associate Pres-
bytery. In 1747, they divided on the "Burgess Oath"
into two Synods, and grew rapidly. It was hoped
some of them might join the Covenanters so that a
Presbytery could he erected, but in this there was
disappointment. In the testimony emitted by these men
who constituted the first Associate Presbytery, it is
admitted that grievous defects existed in the Revolu-

50 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

tion "settlement," and that rulers did not possess scrip-
tural qualifications ; yet these brethren continued to
acknowledge that the government as constituted was
an ordinance of God, and freely rendered it their sup-
port. They limited the Mediatorial Headship of Christ
to the Church, and that as Mediator Christ does not
govern the nations; that nations are not bound to
acknowledge Christ or His religion ; that magistrates
are God's ordinance, no matter how immoral their
characters may be; and that while scriptural quali-
fications may be desirable in rulers, yet they are not
at all necessary. This view is simply placing the whole
of the Reformation attainments into the grave and
erecting a tombstone.

It is not at all strange that they and the Covenanters
did not embrace each other. In the spring of 1743,
however, one of the Associate ministers, the Rev. Thomas
Nairn, did embrace the principles and joined himself to
the Covenanters. He and the Rev. John McMillan now
constituted the Reformed Presbytery, at Braehead,
Parish of Carnwath, Scotland, August i, 1743. Accession
of ministers and increase of members soon followed, and
the persecuted and despised Covenanter Church of Scot-
land began to exert an influence. In a popular sense,
the Covenanter Church in Scotland was never very
strong, because her principles were exceedingly unpopular,
and not in harmony with the minds of the public. And,
as Dr. Lathan, of South Carolina, truly says, " Her doc-
trinal standards were too high and her practical require-
ments too rigid to be at all palatable to the mass of the
human family. Notwithstanding all this," he says, "the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 5 1

Reformed Presbyterian Church has been, since its organi-
zation, a mighty power in the world. It stands among
all other Christian denominations like a gnarled oak in a
forest of dwarfed undergrowth." They again renewed
the Covenants at Crawford-John, in 1745. The Act,
Declaration and Testimony was adopted at Plough-
landhead in 1761, and soon afterwards published. The
societies in Ireland, which, after the death of the Rev.
David Houston, in 1696, were left without a minister,
and only occasionally visited by the Rev. John McMillan.
The societies in Ireland were placed under the care of
the Reformed Presbytery of Scotland until the Reformed
Presbytery of Ireland was erected in August, 1763.
The Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in
Ireland was constituted at Cullybackey, May i, 18 li.
The Church now regularly constituted in both Scot-
land and Ireland continues almost uninterruptedly
to exist as a distinct denomination until the present
time. The history of the Reformed Presbyterian Church
is now transferred to America, and, after a brief statement
of her beliefs and position, the organic history of the
-Church in this country will be recorded.

52 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

POSITION OF THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH IN AMERICA.

IN her testimony the Reformed Presbyterian Church
embraces the plain and cardinal truths of the Bible
and brings them to bear practically upon the lives of
her members.* From the following "Terms of Com-
munion " and a brief statement of the distinctive prin-
ciples of the Church, her true position may be learned :

TERMS OF COMMUNION.

1. An acknowledgment of the Scriptures of the Old and New Testa-
ments to be the Word of God, and the only rule of faith and manners.

2. An acknowledgment that the whole doctrine of the Westminster
Confession of Faith, and the Catechisms, Larger and Shorter, are agree-
able unto, and founded upon, the Scriptures.

3. An acknowledgment of the divine right of one unalterable form
of Church Government and manner of worship — and that these are, for
substance, justly exhibited in that form of Church Government and
the Directory for Worship agreed upon by the assembly of divines at
Westminster, as they were received by the Church of Scotland.

4. An acknowledgment of public covenanting as an ordinance of
God to be observed by churches and nations ; and of the perpetual ob-
ligation of public covenants ; and of the obligation upon this Church
of the Covenant entered into in 1871, in which are embodied the en-
gagements of the National Covenant of Scotland, and of the Solemn
League and Covenant, so far as applicable in this land.

5. An approbation of the faithful contendings of the martyrs of

* See Testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 53

Jesus, and of the present Reformed Covenanted Churches in Britain and
Ireland, against Paganism, Popery, and Prelacy, and against immoral con-
stitutions of civil government, together with all Erastian tolerations and
persecutions which flow therefrom, as containing a noble example for us
and our posterity to follow in contending for all divine truth, and in
testifying against all contrary evils, which may exist in the corrupt con-
stitutions of either Church or State.

6. An approbation of the doctrines contained in the Declaration
and Testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian' Church in North America,
in defence of truth, and in opposition to error.

These, together with due subordination in the Lord to the authority
of the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in North America,
and a regular life and conversation, form the bonds of our ecclesi-
astical union.

From this clear and concise declaration and testi-
mony it is learned that the position of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church in America is, and always has been,
one of practical dissent from the Constitution of the
United States. In this the practice of the Church has
been uniform. The Constitution is radically and wil-
fully defective in that it does not recognize the exis-
tence of God, the supremacy of Christ the King of
Nations, and the Word of God as the supreme law.
On account of these radical defects, and the many im-
moralities which naturally flow from them. Reformed
Presbyterians cannot recognize it as a scripturally con-
stituted civil government, nor swear allegiance to it,
however much they may admire its many excellencies.

The relation of Christ to the nation is that of a
Sovereign to a moral subject — a moral person, upon
whom the law of His Kingdom is binding.* While

* Lecture of Dr. J. R. W. Sloane.
3

54 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

civil society is founded in nature, it is one of the
"all things" that are put under Christ as Mediator, and
the nation flourishes or decays as it is obedient or
disobedient to His law. Now as our highest allegiance
is due not to the state, but to Christ, it is the duty
of every Christian to stand aloof from such a govern-
ment and refuse to incorporate with the political society
which refuses or neglects to acknowledge the authority
of Christ and His word in its fundamental law. The
document reads : " We, the people of the United States
* * * do ordain and establish this Constitution
for the United States of America." This declaration
is historically, philosophically and scripturally untrue.
The Constitution in all its essential elements was
in existence before the document thus called was
penned ; constitutions are not ordained of men, but
grow ; and the Scripture afifirms that the powers that
are legitimate powers at all, are ordained of God. These
glaring defects, with the denial of any religious quali-
fication, the absence of the name of God from the
oath, and the license of immorality and crime upon
which it sets its official seal, give the document,
called the Constitution, such a character of infi-
delity and irreligion that no true Christian ought
to give it his full sanction. For these reasons, Re-
formed Presbyterians have never voted at any of
the elections, nor held office under the govern-
ment. They have never refused, however, to recognize
the authority of the government in things lawful, and
its right to legislate for the well being of men. They
pay their taxes cheerfully as a lawful obligation ; bear

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 55

arms heroically in its defence and for the protection of
their rights ; and give it their moral support in every-
way that does not involve them in its evil. They
heartily aid the government in all that is right and
true. They enter the role of defenders and not traitors ;
reformers and not revolutionists. Theirs is the highest
kind of patriotism. Theirs is a love of country which
would lead them to make any sacrifice to bring it
into the enjoyment of the blessedness of that nation
whose God is the Lord.

Reformed Presbyterians hold that the Church and
State are two divine institutions, supreme in their own
spheres, yet touching at so many points that they
cannot be entirely separated. The one should not arrro-
gate to itself the powers of the other, for under
Christ the one is His spiritual kingdom, and the other
His moral dominion. They should, however, assist each
other in dangerous emergencies, and in the universal
spread of the gospel.

The National Reform Association, organized with the
hearty support and indorsement of the Reformed Pres-
byterian Church, in 1863, has for its object "the main-
tenance of the existing Christian features in the Ameri-
can government ; the promotion of needed reforms in
the action of the government touching the Sabbath,
the institution of the family, the religious element in
education, the oath, and public morality as affected by
the liquor traffic, and other kindred evils ; and to
secure such an amendment to the Constitution of the
United States as will declare the nation's allegiance
to Jesus Christ, and its acceptance of the moral laws

56 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

of the Christian religion ; and so indicate that this is
a Christian nation and place all the Christian laws,
institutions, and usages of our government upon ah
undeniable legal* basis in the fundamental law of the
land." This Association has drawn to its support
many of the most learned theologians and able jurists
in the country, and all true Christian patriots are fall-
ing into line with this theory of civil government as
the only safe and true course for the preservation of
America. It is often asked, Is the Reformed Presby-
terian Church a necessity ? This question is answered
in the affirmative. It is the only distinct religious
body in America that is bringing its principles to bear
on the government for its reformation, and has the
grandest object for which to live and labor. A practi-
cal protest against evil is the only testimony that is
weighty. The intelligent reader can understand the
necessity and attitude of this Church, and that it is
not for a trifling reason that Reformed Presbyterians
forego priviledges dear to every freeman, and subject
themselves to the reproach of men.

As it is not the province of the historian to discuss
theological differences between Christians, an elaborate
argumentation of the distinctive principles of the Church
will neither be expected by the readers, nor required
by the author to carry out the design of this book.
The distinctive principles will be briefly stated. Re-
formed Presbyterians hold that social religious Covenant-
ing is an ordinance of God to .be entered into by the
individual, the church, and the nation. They acknow-
ledge the perpetual obligation of the National and

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 57

Solemn League and Covenant entered into by their
fathers in Scotland, so far as they are applicable in
this land, and until all the objects therein specified are
accomplished. While they acknowledge that many of
the objects for which those precious documents were
sworn have been accomplished, yet they are binding
upon the present Covenanting Church in America until
Papacy is removed from our land, and this Man of
Sin recognizes the perogatives of Christ. In 1871, they
entered anew into Covenant with God, the bond of
which will be found on another page. There is no
doctrine of the Bible more clearly revealed than the
descending obligation of Covenants. We recognize the
principle every day in our commercial and national
life, and it is alike applicable in our spiritual life.
Because Reformed Presbyterians hold tenaciously to
former Covenants of ' the Church and conscientiously
display the principle, they are rightly called Covenanters.
Reformed Presbyterians exclude from their communion
all members of secret oath-bound societies. They re-
gard all such associations as the creatures of the
Prince of darkness. The example and the spirit of the
religion of Christ condemn such societies, for He said
nothing in secret, and His acts of charity were done
towards those very characters which are excluded from
secret societies. Did Christ not minister to ivovian in
all her needs } Did He not minister to the viaivied^
the halt and the blind ? And yet these special objects
of Christ's love and charity are the very ones secrecy
excludes from any benefit. Charity towards the rich,
the famed, and the healthy, is not charity, but rather

58 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

selfishness and malevolence. Secrecy is held up in a
very unfavorable manner in the Eighth Chapter of
Ezekiel. Neither the Church nor the State has ever
delegated to any association of men the power to ad-
minister the horrible oaths that are administered to the
unfortunate candidates of secrecy, and who are in the
dark as to what they are swearing to perform. On
account of their blasphemous oaths, irreverent use of
God's titles and attributes, banding together for selfish
and wicked purposes, Christless Scriptures which are
used to accommodate all classes of persons and beliefs^
and the tyrannical measures and dreadful penalties for
revealing their benevolent (i") Avork, Reformed Presby-
terians forbid their members to join or to belong ta
associations of this character.

Reformed Presbyterians do not use hymns of human
composition in the service of divine worship. They be-
lieve that God has given to His Church the matter of
praise in the Book of Psalms, and has never delegated
to any uninspired man the authority to substitute humart
for divine matter of praise. The Psalms of the Bible
were used in the temple and synagogue worship and it
would have been considered a corruption of the worship
to substitute any thing else. Christ and the Apostles
used the Psalms in divine worship under the present
dispensation, and on the night of the institution of the
eucharistic feast they sang a part of the Great Hallel,,
z. e., a portion of the six Psalms from the one hun-
dred and thirteenth to the one hundred and eighteenth^
inclusive. Hymns, or human compositions, were un-
known in the Christian Church until several centuries

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 59

after Christ. It is a remarkable fact that the periods
in which Hymns were introduced were generally those
characterized by defection and spiritual ignorance. The
Presbyterian Church never introduced human composi-
tions into worship until she made defection from the
attainments of the Second Reformation, and in some
parts of the world this Church still clings to the Songs

of Zion. For the reasons that God has not delegated
to an uninspired person the right to introduced into
His worship that which is already provided ; that Christ
and the New Testament Church sanction the use of
the songs of the Bible ; that many of the hymns are
untrue, frivolous and sectarian, the Reformed Presby-
terian Church use exclusively the one hundred and fifty
Psalms of the Bible in divine worship, and they have
always found them beautifully adapted and truly com-
forting in all the circumstances of the Church, and pre-
eminently so because they are the words of God to
all His people.

Another peculiarity of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church is that no instruments of music are used
in divine worship. They believe that instruments were
used in the tabernacle and temple worship by the
Levites, and at " the time of the offering up of sacri-
fices by the priests. As these services were wholly
typical and were done away with at the coming of
Christ, so also all the accompaniments and material
supports of that service. At the advent of Christ the
building was completed and the scaffolding was taken
down. Christ and the Apostles never used an instru-
ment of music in the synagogue worship, although they

60 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

used the Psalms. If instruments had been necessary to
acceptable worship, the example or direction of Christ
in this matter would have been given. Christ requires
a spiritual service — the melody of the heart with the
fruit of the lips. The leading writers and fathers of
the Church give instruments no place in the worship.
They were introduced by Pope Vitalian, in A. D., 660,
to "augment the eclat of religious ceremonies." Being
of Romish origin, all true Protestants should look upon
the innovation with suspicion. The true principle of
Christian worship is " What has the Lord required,"
and not what He has not forbidden. All Presbyterians
recognize the Westminister standards, and the Confes-
sion of Faith says we are to " sing Psalms with grace
in the heart," and "the acceptable way of worshipping
the true God is instituted by Himself, and is so limited
by His own revealed will that He may not be wor-
shipped according to the imaginations and devices of
men." It is an admitted fact that instruments and
operatic choirs destroy congregational singing, and sub-
stitute a meaningless service for that which every heart
should render unto God. Instruments are used for the
express purpose of making the service attractive, and
the praise offering is often rendered for the worship-
pers by those whose lips and hearts have never been
touched by the love of God. When the worship is
thus rendered by machinery, God is robbed of that
heart service and spiritual communion which each wor-
shipper should have with Him in the ordinances of grace.
Among the forms still retained in the Church are
the distribution of tokens at the communion season,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 6 1

the "fencing of the tables" with table addresses, and
an explanation of a portion of a Psalm each Sab-
bath morning. They are opposed to any change
with reference to the doctrines and practice of the
house of God. Their services are plain and simple,
and aim at the purity rather than the attractiveness of
divine worship. While many of their doctrines and
practices are unpopular, Reformed Presbyterians choose
to bear the criticism, and even the reproach, of men,
if they can only please God and bring glory upon
His name. They desire to be approved of God in the
maintenance of a purely scriptural Church, and to bring
prominently before the world the sacrificial and medi-
atorial work of the Lord Jesus Christ. While often
despised of men for their exclusiveness, they do not
expect their reward for their accommodations to the
likes of sinful men, but for their fidelity to Christ and
and His truth, and whose angel speaks to them as to
the Church of Smyrna, " Be thou faithful unto death
and I will give thee a crown of life." They plead
the promise to the Apostles, " Fear not, little flock,
for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you
the kingdom." They maintain these doctrines and prin-
ciples in the spirit of love and charity for all men
and Christians, and with the sanguine belief that their
principles will ultimately prevail and fill the whole
earth with liberty and happiness.

62 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

ORGANIC HISTORY OF THE REFORMED PRES-
BYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA.

INURING the persecution in Scotland, members of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church were banished, or vol-
untarily found an asylum, in America. They mostly
settled in Eastern Pennsylvania, New York and South
Carolina ; and where two or three families were located
in the same community, they organized themselves into
a society upon the basis of the Reformation, and kept
themselves distinct from other denominations. The
majority of the Covenanters previous to 1750, were
settled in Eastern Pennsylvania. Those residing in the
vicinity of Octorara were joined by the Rev. Alexander
Craighead of the Presbyterian Church, who espoused
their principles in 1743, lead them in Covenanting, and
dispensed the ordinances to them for several years.
A session was constituted, and among the first elders
were Robert Laughhead and Josiah Kerr. The con-
gregation was often called the "Craighead Society. "^
In maintaining the principles of the Covenanters, Mr.
Craighead aroused the displeasure of his former breth-
ren and the civil society. He published a pamphlet
of a political nature, in which he set forth his pecu-
liar views on civil government which were offensive to^
the Presbyterian Church because it was loyal to the
Crown. After co-operating with the Covenanters for

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 63

several years, and failing to obtain help for them from
the mother country, he abandoned the society, returned
to the Presbyterian Church, and removed to North
Carolina.

The societies were again left destitute of a minister,
and made urgent applications to the Reformed Presby-
tery of Scotland for help. The first Covenanter minis-
ter who came to America was the Rev. John Cuth-
bertson, from Scotland, who arrived in August, 1751.
He continued to visit the scattered societies of Cove-
nanters throughout Pennsylvania, New York, and other
States, for a period of twenty-two years. He made
his home at Little Octorara, Lancaster County, Penn-
sylvania, where the chief society was located. A few
rude log houses of worship were erected, but the preach-
ing services were held either in the open air in some
pleasant grove, or in private houses and barns, and his
travelling was wholly done on horseback. The amount
of travel, and the hardships endured by this pioneer
missionary are perfectly marvelous, and almost incred-
ible to those enjoying the accommodations and luxuries
of this age.

In 1759, the Rev. Alexander McDowell left the
Presbyterian Church, and espoused the cause of the
Covenanters. He ministered principally to the societies
in Connecticut and Massachusetts, but assisted Mr.
Cuthbertson in Eastern Pennsylvania. He was called to-
the congregation of Rock Creek (Gettysburgh), but de-
clined, and in a few years returned to New England,
and was lost to the Church. In 1766, the Reformed
Presbytery of Ireland sent out the Rev. Daniel

64 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

McClelland, who ministered to the societies in Con-
necticut and Eastern Pennsylvania for a few years, but
neither of these ministers was of any material assist-
ance to the cause. Mr. Cuthbertson had a great deal
to contend with in several ways. He suffered many an-
noyances from the British government, which was doing
all in its power to subject the struggling colonist to
carry the doubly grievous yoke of tyranny and Episco-
pacy. He encouraged the societies to assert their rights
as freemen and to fight for the defence of their
country. He inspired them to perseverance and the
hope that God would vindicate the cause of the op-
pressed and give them civil and religious liberty. In
1772, the Rev. William Martin came out from Ireland
with a colony of his people and settled along Rocky
Creek, in South Carolina.

In the Spring of 1773, a Commissioner was sent to
Ireland from Paxtang society, Pennsylvania, to secure
one or two ministers to come to the assistance of Mr.
Cuthbertson. He was successful in his mission, and the
Reformed Presbytery of Ireland sent out the Revs.
Matthew Linn and Alexander Dobbin, who landed in
Philadelphia, December 13, 1773, where they were met
by Mr. Cuthbertson and conducted to his home. Revs.
John Cuthbertson, Matthew Linn and Alexander Dobbin
constituted the first REFORMED PRESBYTERY IN America,
at Paxtang, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, March 10,
1774. At this time each of these ministers was as-
signed to his respective field of labor in Eastern Penn-
sylvania, and with Mr. Martin in South Carolina, these
four ministers held forth the cause of the Reformation
in the new world.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 6$

The country was now thrown into the excitement
and turmoil of the Revolutionary war, and every colo-
nist who loved civil and religious liberty was called
upon to defend his country and his rights. To a man
the Covenanters were Whigs. An unsound Whig made
a poor Covenanter^ and a good Covenanter made a loyal
Whig. The colonists declared themselves independent
of Great Britain, July 4, 1776, at Philadelphia, and a
five years' war ensued. North and South the Covenan-
ters went hand and heart into the struggle for inde-
pendence. When the Rev. Alexander Craighead re-
moved to North Carolina he was thoroughly imbued
with the principles of the Covenanter Church, and dis-
seminated them among the Scotch-Irish Presbyterians of
that community. The consequence was the First De-
claration of Independence was emitted by his followers
in May, 1775, a year or more previous to the Na-
tional Declaration. From reliable histories a few in-
teresting facts are gleaned. Mr. Bancroft says : " The
first public voice in America for dissolving all con-
nection with Great Britain came not from the Puritans
of New England, the Dutch of New York, nor the
Planters of Virginia, but from the Scotch-Irish Pres-
byterians of the Carolinas." He evidently refers to the
influence of Rev. Alexander Craighead and the Meck-
lenberg Declaration ; and this influence was due to
the meeting of the Covenanters of Octorara, where in
1743, they denounced in a public manner the policy
of George the Second, renewed the Covenants, and
swore with uplifted swords that they would defend their
lives and their property against all attack and confis-

66 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

cation, and their consciences should be kept free from
the tyrannical burden of Episcopacy. Here was the
fountain of Southern patriotism, and the Octorara
meeting was the original germ of American independ-
ence which was transplanted in Charlotte and then in
Philadelphia. More than this. Thomas Jefferson says in
his autobiography, that when he was engaged in pre-
paring the National Declaration that he and his
colleagues searched everywhere for formulas, and that
the printed proceedings of Octorara were before him,
and he used freely the ideas in the Mecklenberg
Declaration.* No doubt this accounts for the similarity
of expressions in the two documents. Sometimes it
does happen that the discover or the inventor does
not enjoy the right which should be bestowed upon
him.

A writer in the Nezv York Revieiv, reviewing the
"Life of Thomas Jefferson," by Tucker, clearly shows
that the Preamble to the Bill of Rights, the Mecklen-
berg Declaration, and the Virginia Bill of Rights con-
tain nearly everything of importance in the Declara-
tion of Independence of July 4, 1776, upon which rests
so much of Mr. Jefferson's fame.f Of this latter in-
strument, and the Mecklenberg Declaration, Judge
Tucker, says: (Vol. II., p. 627.) "Every one must be
persuaded, at least all who have been minute observers
of style, that one of these papers had borrowed from
the other." (See also the observations in the writings
of Thomas Jefferson, by H. Lee, Philadelphia, 1839).

* Wheeler's Reminiscences, p. 278, in Congressional Library,
f Wheeler's Reminiscences, p. 278.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 6/

The spirit which moved Rev. Alexander Craighead to
the use of expressions frequent in documents prepared
and used on similar occasions in Scotish history, evi-
dently influenced the mind of Thomas Jefferson, when
he indited the National Declaration of Independence.
The printed proceedings of Octorara and Mecklenberg
were both in circulation in Philadelphia at that time,
and account for kindred expressions.

It is now difficult to tell whether Donald Cargill,
Hezekiah Balch or Thomas Jefferson wrote the National
Declaration of American Independence, for in sentiment
it is the same as the " Queensferry Paper" and the
Mecklenberg Declaration.

The " rash " declaration of Rev. Donald Cargill, the
■Covenanter, was, *' We do declare that we shall set
up over ourselves and over what God shall give us
power of, government and governors according to the
Word of God ; that we shall no more commit the
government of ourselves and the making of laws for
us to any one single person, this kind of government
being most liable to inconveniences and aptest to
degenerate into tyranny." This sentiment of thorough
Republican independence was in circulation long before
Balch or Jefferson was born, and the proceedings of
Octorara preceeded those of Charlotte or Philadelphia
fully a third of a century. " Honor to whom hopor is
due." To stigmatize Covenanters as " anti-government
people " is unjust aud untrue, and they are only objects
■of derision because their accusers are totally ignorant
•of their principles. They are heartily in favor of
government, and the republican form of government,

68 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and only object to the Constitution for its omission
to acknoivlcdge the source from which all government
comes, and a practical application of that doctrine.

These humble and sincere followers of Jesus, who
would conscientiously desire to erect a church and
government after God's pattern, have been the truest
and best friends the American government has ever
possessed, and to a man they have been faithful to
their country and to their God in every national
struggle. To them, more than to any other people,
the American government is indebted for liberty, and
they demonstrated to the world that "there can be a
church without a bishop and a government without a
king."

At the house of Captain Paxton, in Eastern Penn-
sylvania, July 2, 1777, after a patriotic and powerful
sermon, the Rev. . John Cuthbertson, and many of the
Covenanters, swore fidelity to the cause of the Colonists.
They took no immoral oath to an immoral constitution,
for there was none in existance ; they simply said
they were heartily in favor of the Revolution, and would
be faithful to its cause. It was a similar act to that
of Rev. Alexander Craighead and the Covenanters in
1743. In South Carolina, the old Covenanter minister,
William Martin, than whom no man in the South was
better^ known, was doing all in his power for the cause
of the Whigs. He preached rebellion against an unlaw-
ful and tyrannical King, and incited the people to rise
up in arms against British oppression. For the expres-
sion of his sentiments he was apprehended by the
Tories, and lay in the prison-house at Rocky Mount

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 69

and Camden for over six months. When he was
brought before Lord Cornwallis at Winnsboro, he made
no retraction of his sentiments, and said he might
do with him as he pleased. The Covenanters went
heartily into the bloody conflict, and the battles of
Fridus Fort and Eutaw Springs were so fierce and
hotly contested, that their guns came to a blue heat
in the conflict.* Such bravery in battle as was dis-
played by William Anderson, John Smith, John Faris,
Thomas McClurkin, Thomas Neil, and other Covenan-
ters, deserves record. Wherever Covenanters and staunch
Presbyterians were settled, there were the strongholds
of the cause of American independence.

While the colonists had a right and just reason to
declare their independence of Great Britain in 1776,
they had not a right nor a just reason for declaring
their independence of the God of battles in 1789.
The Declaration of Independence was right, but the
Constitution of the United States was wrong. The
spirit of liberty that animated the Revolutionary patriot
was the same spirit that beat in the true heart and
unyielding courage of the Scotch Covenanters, although
many of the heroes and patriots of the struggle were
irreligious men. The trouble was, French infidelity
mingled with American patriotism at the helm of
State, and was the cause of the perversion of loyalt}-
to the Divine Being in the instrument of the newly
erected government.

During this excitement of war, and the disturbed
state of the country, there was a slight change going

*Rev. D. S. Paris, in R. P. & C, 1876, p. 56.
4

70 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

on in the minds of some of the Covenanters in Eastern
Pennsylvania. The religious element in this country at
that time was in a chaotic state. It was a new
country being settled up by emigrants from the old.
There, they were trammelled with tyrannical measures
in church and state ; here, they were free to assert
their independence of thought and action, and they
were not as cautious as they should have been.
Covenanters enthusiastically threw themselves into the
struggle without immorality, thinking for aught they
knew the Constitution when framed would be of the
nature and make the acknowledgments which they
desired. In this state of things Covenanters freely
mingled with other Christians without respect to national
or denominational peculiarities. The Covenanters hailed
with joy the destruction in America of the govern-
ment that had oppressed and persecuted them to the
death in Scotland. Besides this, another branch of the
Scottish Church was taking root in the same com-
munity, which had originally been of the same stock
and race in Britain, and now cotemporaneously planted
in America. These circumstances all pointed to the
practicability of seeking a union of the Covenanters
and the Associate Church. Churches ought to unite
and cause the body of Christ to become one when
there is no immorality or departure from principles
demanded. So far as the practical application of this
movement at that special period was concerned it was
a good move, but theoretically it was a bad move-
ment. When the union was effected there was no
Constitution, moral or immoral, but the Seceders held

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 7 1

the principle that we are bound to recognize as the
ordinance of God any government that may be set up
without respect to qualifications, and here the Seceders
showed their inconsistency. They bitterly opposed the
Covenanters in Scotland and America for disowning the
British government as an ordinance of God, and now
they turn around and do all they can to overthrow
that very government which they declared was an ordi-
nance of God. Under the same government they were
loyal in Scotland and disloyal in America, and seek
union with a body that was always opposed to an
unscriptural, tyrannical and oppressive government. The
Seceders declared at the Revolutionary war that the
doctrine of passive obedience, which they had cherished
with seeming sincerity, was simply absurd ; and that
the principles of the Covenanters, and those upon
which the colonists acted, were true, and that "we are
not bound to own as God's ordinance every one, with-
out exception, who may providentially have power in
his hands."

In the coalescence, the Covenanter ministers never
thought of giving up their principles, but they should
have known the dangers of a compromise of principle.
No sooner had the fair building of Covenanterism been
erected in America upon Reformation principles, than
the builders began to hew down the carved palace by
affiliating with men who were opposed to the design
of the structure. And this thing was not done hastily.
They had been deliberately agitating the question for
at least five years, and consummated it in the erection
of the Associate Reformed Church, November i, 1782.

72 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

They called the new organization b}- both names^
although it was practically an Associate Church still.
As soon as the Constitution was framed a few years
later, they all came under it as the Associate Church
had done in Britain ; .they swore allegiance to it as
the ordinance of God, although God, or Christ, or the
Bible, is not recognized in it. If not in 1782, cer-
tainly in 1789, it became an Associate Church, and
we are not surprised to learn that some of the Cove-
nanter ministers hung their heads in shame and re-
gretted the step they had taken.

The Reformed Presbytery lost its name and organiza-
tion in America. No doubt Matthew Linn was the
best Covenanter among them. In all the conferences,
the minutes of which are published in " Miller's
Sketches," hot debates were prevalent, and all the dif-
ferences between the two bodies were discussed with
marked ability. Upon one occasion the blood of the
old Covenanter Matthew Linn became stirred, and he
concluded an able and eloquent address upon a proposi-
tion in these words : " You may agree to what proposi-
tions you please, but we Covenanters will agree to
none but with this interpretation, that all power and
ability civil rulers have are from Christ the Prophet of
the Covenant ; and all the food and raiment mankind
enjoy are from Christ the Priest of the Covenant."
And if he and his colleagues had added that no
government is lawfully constituted without the acknowl-
edgment that Christ is the King of nations, and clung
to these sentiments, there would have been no dis-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 73

astroLis union. The following is the basis of union
finally agreed upon and adopted :

1. That Jesus Christ died for the elect only.

2. That there is an appropriation in the nature of faith.

3. That the Gospel is indiscriminately addressed to sinners of
mankind.

4. That the righteousness of Christ is the alone proper condition
of the Covenant of grace.

5. That civil power originates from God the Creator, and not
from Christ the Mediator.

6. That the administration of the kingdom of Providence is com-
mitted to Jesus Christ the Mediator ; and magistracy, the ordinance
appointed by the moral Governor of the world to be the pillar or
prop of civil order among men, as well as other things, is rendered
subservient by the Mediator to the welfare of His spiritual kingdom,
the Church, and beside the Church has the sanctified use of that and
every common benefit, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

7. That the law of nature and the moral law revealed in Scrip-
ture are substantially the same, although the latter expresses the will
of God more evidently and clearly than the former; and therefore
magistrates among Christians ought to be regulated by the general
directory of the Word as to the execution of their offices in faithful-
ness and righteousness.

8. That the qualifications of justice, veracity, &c., required in the
law of nature for the being of a magistrate, are also more clearly
and explicitly revealed as necessary in Scripture. But a religious test
any farther than an oath of fidelity can never be essentially neces-
sary to the being of a magistrate, except when the people make it a
condition of government ; then it may be among that people neces-
sary by their own voluntary deed.

g. That both parties, when united, shall adhere to the Westmins-
ter Confession of Faith, Catechisms Larger and Shorter, Directory for
Worship, and Propositions concerning Church Government.

10. That they shall claim the full exercise of church discipline
without dependence on foreign judicatories.

The union was consummated at the house of William
Richards, in the city of Philadelphia, November i,

74 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

1782, at which time and place the Synod of the
Associate Reformed Church was constituted, with the
Rev. John Mason, Moderator. The following members
composed the new body as then organized :

Associates: Revs. James Proudfit, Matthew Hender-
son, John Mason, Robert Annan, John Smith, John
Rodgers, Thomas Clark, William Logan, John Murray
and David Annan. Elders — Joseph Miller, Thomas
Douglas and William McKinley.

Covenanters : Revs. John Cuthbertson, Matthew Linn,
Alexander Dobbin and David Telfair. Elders — James
Bell, John Cochran and Dr. Robert Patterson.

The great majority of the Covenanters in the North
followed their misguided pastors into the union. Rev.
William Martin, in South Carolina, was the only
Covenanter minister left in America, and no doubt he
would have gone in too if he had been in good stand-
ing and had had the opportunity. The Covenanters
in the Sou.th were little effected by the union. While
in the ten articles of agreement there are many con-
cessions to the principles of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church, yet there are some radical departures. To the
concessions all the Seceders did not agree, and to
the departures all the Covenanters did not agree. The
consequence was, three bodies were formed instead of
one. While it is said " in union there is strength,"
it depends largely upon the basis of that union. The
moral strength of the Church depends upon purity of
doctrine and not upon the mass of individuals. The
sparkling rill from the mountain side is smaller and
purer than the large turbid river that flows through

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 75

the valley. Two ministers of the Associate Church
did not go into the union, and this Church was re-or-
ganized and grew rapidly.

In an edition of their Testimony, emitted about fifty
years after the union, we read : '• Nearly fifty years
have now elapsed since the organization of the Asso-
ciate Reformed Church ; and the correctness of the
[former] remarks on her Constitution, has been clearly
exhibited. For some time she continued to observe
the usages of the Associate Church from which she
separated. But becoming numerous and popular some
of her ministers began to manifest symptoms of dis-
satisfaction with many of these usages, acted contrary
to them, wrote against them, and attempted their
abolition." Among their devisive courses enumerated
were the doing away with days of fasting and pre-
peration before communion, holding open communion,
singing hymns, freely exchanging pulpits with all
denominations, and agitating a union with the Pres-
byterian Church. The history of the Associate Re-
formed Church was marked with so much declension,
that the body divided into three distinct Synods in
the North, South and West.

The Covenanters were worse off than the remnant
of the Associate Church, for they had no minister.
But God graciously preserved the germs of Covenan-
terism, and the few faithful ones rallied around the
old flag. With the heroism of their martyred ancestry,
they clung to their blood-bought principles and gathered
themselves again into the praying societies. The
Covenanter Church has a mission to fill and a grand

76 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

object for which to live, or God would not have so
tenderly and marvelously preserved her from total
extinction both in Scotland and America. Nearly every,
if not every, other denomination has either departed
from some of her principles or become thoroughly
Americanized ; but the old Covenanter Church retains
her ancient principles intact, with her rugged Scottish
forms of worship, and has successfully weathered every
storm of innovation.

The scattered societies of Covenanters now called
loudly for help from Scotland and Ireland. They
waited patiently seven years before their request could
be granted. In the summer of 1789, the Reformed
Presbytery of Scotland sent out the Rev. James Reid
to examine into the condition and needs of the
societies. He made an investigating tour among all
the societies from New York to South Carolina ;
preached and held communions, organized new societies
and congregations, and returned to Scotland in a little
less than a year. Doubtless in his elaborate report to
the Scottish Presbytery, Mr. Reid showed the need of
immediate action and the pressing claims of the
American Covenanters. His visit lead the Churches in
Europe to take immediate steps for sending ministerial
help to this country. The Rev. James McGarragh was
first sent out by the Reformed Presbytery of Ireland,
and he arrived in South Carolina in the Spring of
1 79 1. Rev. William King was also commissioned by
the Reformed Presbytery of Scotland, and arrived in
South Carolina in the Fall of 1792. Revs. McGarragh
and King were now directed to act as a Committee

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. ^J

of the Scottish Presbytery and to judicially manage
the affairs of the Church ; they restored the Rev.
William Martin, and he was added to the Com-
mittee. In the Spring of 1793, the Rev. James
McKinney came out from Ireland as an £xile for liberty,
and preached throughout the Northeastern States and
cities with great power and success. He also was
connected with the work of the Committee, which
now acted as a regularly constituted Presbytery in
subordination to the Reformed Presbytery beyond the
ocean. In August, 1795, Mr. McGarragh was suspended
on account of intemperate habits, and Mr. Martin was
silenced for the same reason, thus leaving Mr. King
alone in the South to manage the affairs of the
Church. Mr. McKinney held that it was not satisfac-
tory to judicially manage the affairs of the Church in
America by a Committee from Scotland ; but to un-
derstand and judiciously apply the provisions for the
needs of the societies, the Church here should have
a separate and distinct Presbytery. This was necessary
on account of the vast number of emigrants which
were arriving, and efforts were made to carry this idea
into execution.

The Reformed Presbytery of Ireland was placed in
a critical position with reference to the Irish insurrec-
tion, and their troubles proved advantageous to the
Church in America in the way of receiving ministers
and members. For many years the Covenanters
in Ireland were the sole advocates of liberty from the
Crown. While they deeply sympathized with the cause
of the oppressed, they could not join the society of

78 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

United Irishmen, but disapproved of their proceedings.
This society was organized at Belfast by Theobald
Wolfe Tone. In a document published in 1796, entitled
" A Seasonable and Necessary Information," the Re-
formed Presbytery of Ireland vindicated its character
in reference to this society known as the United Irish-
men, by declaring its " highest abhorence of all such
tumultuous meetings and disorderly societies," and
signified its disapproval of " anything said or done
prejudicial to the peace, safety and property of any
individual or society." This document was published
in the Northern Star, October 3, 1796, and was done
in the name of the Covenanter Church in the counties
of Antrim and Down.* Being thoroughly in sympathy
with the cause that might overthrow monarchy and
prelacy. Covenanters were suspected by the government
of being in connection with this society, and were ofterk
so regarded. They did sympathize with, but not adopt
the methods of, this society, and many of them fled
to America for safety and peace. Among those coming"
in the Fall of 1797, were the Rev. William Gibson,,
with John Black and Samuel B. Wylie, students of
theology. Revs. King, McKinney and Gibson now
made arrangements to constitute a Presbytery in
America, but Mr. King died before it was effected.
Revs. Gibson and McKinney, with ruling elders, con-
stituted the Reformed Presbytery of America, at
Philadelphia, in May, 1798, which had been dissolved since
the coalescence of 1782. This court was fully recog-
nized by the Presbyteries in Ireland and Scotland, and
*Reid's History of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 79

a friendly correspondence was established with them.
They were not placed under the same circumstances
as the brethren in 1774, and the objectional features
of the Constitution of the United States were clearly
pointed out and testified against. Its wilful omission
of all reference to God the Author, Christ the King,
and the Word of God as the Supreme Law of nations
and civil government ; its sanction and protection of
human slavery, and other permissions of evil, excluded
all conscientious Covenanters from swearing allegiance
to it. The position of the Church was then, as it is
now, one of practical dissent from the Constitution
for these just and good reasons, and so it remains
without change either in the testimony or the practical
application of these principles.

Among the first judicial acts of the Reformed
Presbytery worthy of special notice, was the deliver-
ance of this body, in 1800, on the subject of human
slavery. They had always held this system to be a
sin, and previous to 1798, the ministers in South
Carolina had warned members against it. The matter
was brought before them by Rev. Alexander McLeod
refusing to accept a call to Coldenham, New York,
because there were some members who owned slaves.
The Presbytery enacted, without a dissenting voice,
that " no slaveholder should be allowed the communion
of the Church." They also appointed a Committee,
consisting of Revs. James McKinney and Samuel B.
Wylie, to repair to South Carolina with the message
of this court that the Covenanters there must either
emancipate their slaves or be refused the communion

80 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

of the Church. " The Committee were no less surprised
than delighted to find with what alacrity those con-
cerned came forward and complied with the decree of
Presbytery. In one day, in the small community of
Covenanters at Rocky Creek, not less than three
thousand guineas were sacrificed upon the altar of
principle," and the Church then and forever cleansed
her hands from the guilt of human slavery. Cove-
nanters were far in advance of other denominations in
this matter. The Associate Reformed Synods of the
North and West gave a very mild deliverance in
1826, but the Synod of the South never made a
deliverance upon the subject. Previous to the Revolu-
tionary war there were few negroes in the South, but
the traffic in human souls began immediately afterwards
and the nefarious business became a great trade and
industry. With the annual growth of slavery the
annual emigration of Covenanters increased. They were
thorough-going abolishionists, and established " under-
ground railways " from the South into Canada.

In 1802, the Rev. Samuel B. Wylie was sent as a
commissioner to the sister judicatories of Europe, with
the instructions of the Reformed Presbytery that
he shall "give them a just representation of our
present situation as a church in North America ; to
intimate our unfeigned wish for a friendly connection
and express our sorrow that the court had so long
neglected making intimation to this effect ; and to
endeavor to procure as many ministerial laborers as
may be conveniently obtained." Although the Presby-
tery had been constituted four years, the fact had not

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 8 1

been ofificially announced to the Presbytery under whose
care they had been. This state of affairs would seem
to indicate the necessity of a common judicatory or
supreme court under which Covenanters in all lands
could be united. Mr. Wylie was received with cor-
diality everywhere, and all the objects of his mission
were obtained so far as practicable.

The next important item in the organic history was
the provision made for the emission of the Testimony.
While they went upon the principle that truth is not
local, and they desired a testimony that would be
applicable in all lands, yet they felt the need of a
testimony to apply to the Church in America in con-
tending for all truth and testifying against local evils.
A committee was appointed in 1802, to draught such
a system and ask the co-operation and assistance of
all the ministers in America and the Presbyteries
in Scotland and Ireland. Rev. Alexander McLeod was
the chairman of the committee, and different depart-
ments were assigned to different ministers.

In 1804, the Reformed Dissenting Presbytery proposed
a union with the Covenanters, but they could not be
admitted upon their basis, and the matter was dropped.
In May, 1806, the "Declaration and Testimony of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church in America " was unani-
mously adopted and ordered to be published with all
convenient speed. At this meeting it was also enacted
that "sitting on juries in the civil courts of the
United States, or in any State, is inconsistent with
the Testimony;" and "an oath may be made before
the constituted authorities provided such magistrates

02 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

understand that the person doing so does not recognize
thereby his official right to administer it, but the
individual makes the oath voluntarily to the Supreme
Being." In 1807, a committee was appointed to make
a draught of a covenant, "embracing the spirit and
design of the vows entered into by our fathers in the
Reformation." This work was never attended to, and
not until sixty-five years thereafter was the original
purpose carried out. The "Terms of Communion"
now in use were prepared, and the fourth term was
changed in 1878 to apply to the renovation of the
Covenants in 1871. At the same time the "Directory
for Worship " was prepared by Rev. John Black, and
the "Book of Discipline" by Rev. Alexander McLeod.
They were both adopted in 18 19; but it seems the
"Book of Discipline" was rewritten, several years spent
in making amendments, and it was not authoritatively
published as the law of the Church until 1863. The
Presbytery also decided to establish a Theological
Seminary, and it was opened in Philadelphia, May,
1 8 10, with the Rev. Samuel B. Wylie as the professor.

The Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in
America was constituted at Philadelphia, May 24, 1809,
which court ratified all the deeds of the Reformed
Presbytery and changed the three Committees into
Presbyteries.

The next national struggle was what is known as
the "War of 181 2." On account of "the impressment
of American seamen, depredations on commerce and
attacks upon armed vessels, the United States Con-
gress declared war against Great Britain." The major-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 83

ity of the Covenanters thought it their duty to again
come to the defense of the country and their interests.
As there were many members who were aliens and
would not take the naturalization oath, and, for fear
they would be suspected as enemies of the States, the
Synod of 18 12, made a statement to Congress of her
position as a Church. As no immoral oath was re-
quired of them, the Covenanters were hearty supporters
of the nation's rights and cheerfully bore arms in
defense of the country. The failure of many of the
Christian ministers of other denominations throughout
the country to support the nation in its rights, many
of whom were loyal to Great Britain and opposed to
the measures adopted by the United States, lead the
Rev. Alexander McLeod to preach a series of "War
Sermons," which for truth and eloquence are unexcelled
in modern sermonizing. They were published and
received a large circulation.

At the meeting of Synod in 18 17, the following
resolution was passed : " Whereas, A judicial testimony
for truth and against errors and immoral practices,
unaccompanied with an argumentative defence of the
one and refutation of the other, must be defective — ■
and as a promise has been given by the highest
judicatory of this Church, that such a defence and
refutation, as a third part of our testimony, may be
expected ; therefore.

Resolved, " That a Committee be appointed to inquire
into the subject, and report on the propriety of redeem-
ing their pledge at this time, and to suggest the fittest
mode for accomplishing that purpose.

84 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Resolved, " That this Committee consist of three mem-
bers, viz : Revs. McLeod, Milligan and Lusk." The
Synod also made arrangements for a more hearty and
systematic support of the Seminary.

At the meeting of Synod in i8i8, the following
distribution of articles for the Testimony was made :
" The Directories " to Rev. John Black ; the " Book of
Discipline" and "Form of Covenanting" to Rev. Alex.
McLeod; "Form of Church Government" to Rev. J. R.
Willson ; "Forms of Process" to Rev. Gilbert McMaster ;
and an "Address" to accompany the Covenant to Rev.
Thomas Donnelly. These were to be ready by the
next meeting. The most of the sessions of 1819 were
consumed in considering the " Book of Discipline " and
the " Directory for Worship." The tasks assigned at
the previous meeting were not completed and the
writers were continued. A Committee consisting of
Revs. S. B. Wylie, Alex. McLeod and J. R. Willson
was appointed to " address the sister Synods in Britain
and Ireland and propose to them the propriety of
entering into a Solemn League and Covenant, mutually
binding us to God and to each other in the support
of the cause of the Reformation in which we are all
engaged ; and recognizing the obligation by which we
are bound by the Covenants of our ancestors."

At the meeting of Synod in 1821, a paper was
received from Mr. James Willson, of Kaskaskia, Illinois,,
asking for information with respect to the law of the
Church in civil affairs, and especially on the subject
of sitting on juries. The Synod stated " that no con-
nection with the laws, the offices, or the order of the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 85

State is prohibited by the Church, except what truly
involves immorality." This action of Synod has
frequently been used as an excuse and apology by
those who subsequently became citizens. Now it is
clear that there is no surrender of the position of the
Church in this act, for the Testimony of the Church
has declared over and over again that there was
"immorality interwoven with the general and state's
Constitutions," and members uniformly dissented from
them. Until the Church published her Testimony it
passed an act prohibiting members from sitting on juries,,
for jurors are executive of^cers created by the Constitu-
tion and represent the Nation in giving a verdict
according to the law and testimony. The Synod gave
no new deliverance on the question in 1821, and if Mr.
James Willson had read the authorized Testimony he
would have found that the law of the Church, as
made in the meeting of Presbytery in 1806, was that
" sitting on juries in the civil courts of the United
States, or in any State, is inconsistent with the
Testimony." This law never was repealed and it was
not disannulled by the act of 1821. Although this
act unsettled the minds of some who were anxious to
lay down the Testimony, and lead to complaints from
others who thought the Church was laying down her
principles, the Synod in 1825, gave this clear and
difinite deliverance which forever after should have
closed the mouths of latitudinarians : " Some misunder-
standing having occurred relating to the meaning of
the act passed at our last session respecting serving
on juries, the Synod passed the following resolution :

S6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

" Resolved, That this Synod never understood any act of
theirs relative to their members sitting on juries as
contrary to the old common law of the Church on
these subjects." The " old common law " was prohibitory
and did hold sway, but there was a disposition on the
part of some leading members of Synod to change
the position of the Church as dissenting from the
government, which lead to the formation of the party
which abandoned this distinctive position in 1833.

In 1823, the constitution of the supreme judicatory
was changed into a General Synod by the following
action :

Resolved, That a General Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church, to meet bi-ennially, be formed by delegates from the several
Presbyteries ; that each Presbytery shall have the right of sending two
ministers and as many ruling elders, and that the ratio of increase
of the number of delegates be, until further order be taken on the
subject, two ministers and as many ruling elders, for every three
ministers of which the Presbytery consists.

By many this change was regarded as uncalled for
and the means by which power was acquired to effect
a change in the relation of the Church to the govern-
ment. History confirms the fact that these suspicions
were well-grounded. At this meeting also they reiter-
ated the law of the Church that "no slaveholder can
be held in the communion of the Church," and the
Committee appointed to act on cases of discipline
recommended Synod "to insert under the Chapter of
Oaths, a new article to testify against the oaths taken
by free-masons."

In 1825, the General Assembly Presbyterian Church
proposed a plan of correspondence, and delegates were

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 8/

appointed from the Reformed Presbyterian Church.
They framed a treaty Avhich was ratified by the
General Assembly, but rejected by the Synod of our
Church. This was not satisfactory to those who were
imbued with the spirit of the treaty and who
manifested a disposition to not heed the decisions of
Synod. Thus began a discord, and the peace and
harmony of the Church were again disturbed. Those
who began to maintain these principles of latitudina-
rianism, and consider the testimony and decisions of
the Church ' as of no force, are responsible for the
disruption that soon followed. In 1827, the Synod was
called upon to vindicate its course in criticizing the
position of the Associate Church, and, as this body
liad begun a correspondence with Synod upon the
subject of union, after a free and full discussion of
the principles of each body, the Synod, in 1828,
declared that it would be useless to endeavor to effect
a union with them, and the matter was dropped.

In 1830, the Committee previously appointed to
^'report concerning the propriety of making application
to the several civil authorities of our, common country
respecting the existing relations of this community to
the Commonwealth," reported in an able and earnest
paper that "there could be no change in the existing
relations of the Church to the Nation in consistency
with her testimony as witnessing for the authority of
Christ as King of nations." This faithful report was
galling to some who desired to modify the position of
the Church, and, after a good deal of discussion, it
was finally agreed to commit it to the examination of

88 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

a Committee of four, and if they saw fit, to publish
it as an overture before the next meeting" of Synod.
The Committee framing the paper, and that to examine
it, were made one, and it was hoped that the valuable
part of it w^ould be preserved and the position of the
Church maintained. The following is the action of the
Synod of 1831, with reference to it:

The object of appointing a committee on the civil relations, is to
inquire into the propriety of making application to the civil authorities
respecting the relations in which the members of this Church stand
to them. The said committee accordingly submit to Synod a resolu-
tion in these words :

That an applicatiob be made to the Congress of the United States,
when it shall have been ascertained from influential statesmen that
such application shall probably prove successful, for a grant of the
rights of citizenship to the members of this Church, not otherwise re-
cognized as citizens, on other terms than swearing an oath of allegiance
to the existing civil institutions of the land.

Your committee are of opinion that influential statesmen have not,
as yet, opened the door for a successful application to Congress, and
therefore deem it most prudent to recommend to Synod a postpone-
ment of the subject.

While this report fails to accomplish the design for
which the Committee was appointed, it certainly exalts
the position and authority of the Synod in forbidding
her members to swear allegiance to the government.
A " rising party " was not yet satisfied because the
iron laws of the Church held them down to a sub-
mission to her Testimony. They wanted to breathe
more freely, and so, at the same meeting of 1 831, it
was " resolved that this Synod recommend that the
points of difference on the application of our principles
to the civil institutions of the United States be dis-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 89

cussed through the medium of the American Christiaii
Expositor, under the head of " Free Discussions," and
that every member of Synod have full liberty to avail
himself of this vehicle."

Now the law of the Church and the acquiescence of
members to the report both plainly declared that
members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church could
not, consistent with their position of dissent, swear
allegiance to the government. As upon this vital
question there was no difference of opinion, how could
it be a matter of discussion .-* It was simply an oc-
casion to repeal the action of Synod prohibiting
incorporation with the government. The consequence
was the pulpit and the press now became vehicles for
the dissemination of doctrines subversive to the position
of the Church. Some of the learned doctors, who had
grown weary of testimony-bearing, wrote articles to
show how easily Covenanters, in consistency with their
principles, could incorporate with the government and
not be charged with complicity in the sins of the
nation. This was " new light " to those who had
thought and held that the Constitution was defective
and licensed immorality, and those who swore allegiance
to it were justly implicated in the evil. Some of the
leading men, who had spent their best days in upholding
the principles of the Church and emitting publications
in her defense, now " changed their minds " and
repudiated the sentiments held when they were " beard-
less boys."

■ We have now come to a period in the history of
the Reformed Presbyterian Church when those errors,

go HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

which were given too much countenance at first r
developed into open rebellion against the true and
historic position of the Church. It is now fifty-five
years since the unpleasant controversy and division of
the Church ; and, while we have no desire to revive
the trouble, we have an earnest desire to vindicate
the position of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. It
is granted that mistakes and bad temper were dis-
played upon both sides ; that the war of words and
pamphlets aggravated the controversy and widened
the separation ; but back of all this debris there was
a righteous position to be held and a Bible principle
to be maintained. Neither the righteousness of the
cause nor the validity of the course consisted in which
side had the learned doctors, the most worldly ambi-
tion, held the most property, exerted the most influence
in society, or held or withdrew from material buildings.
All this is simply c/ust. The question is, Which side
held the true I^ible theory of civil government, and
which departed from the recognized position of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church in America ?

Now the trend of Scottish history, and the Testi-
mony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church officially
adopted in 1806, testify to the fact that Covenanters
are dissenters from immoral Constitutions of Church
and State. No candid and intelligent reader can deny
this fact. No one thoroughly acquainted with the
godly instruction of Covenanters and the true character
of the American government could be mistaken as to
the attitude of Reformed Presbyterians. Hear the Testi-r
mony of 1806:

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 9 1

Since the adoption of the Constitution in 1789, the members of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church have maintained a constant testimony
against these evils. They have refused to serve in any office which im-
plies an approbation of the Constitution, or which is placed under the
direction of an immoral law. They have abstained from giving their
votes at elections for legislators or officers, who must be qualified to act
by an oath of allegiance to this immoral system. They could not
themselves consistently swear allegiance to that Government, in the
Constitution ot which there is contained so much immorality. In all
these instances their practice has been uniform.

And who wrote these sentiments ? A man who was
now repudiating them ! And not only in the " His-
torical Part " of the Testimony, but in the " Doctrinal
Part," which was adopted at the same time, the holding-
up of the United States government as an ordinance
of God was an error to be condemned and testified
against. The sessional records all over the country
reveal the fact, that, previous to the " new light "
which dawned upon the Church in 1833, members who
sat on juries or voted at any elections were centered,
and they either confessed their sin or left the Church.

Without fear of contradiction it is afifirmed, and
synodical reports corroborate the statement, that it was
the settled policy and position of the Reformed Presby-
terian Church in America to refuse allegiance to the
United States government on account of its defects and
immoralities. The constitutional law of the Church has
always been that members are absolutely prohibited from
afifiliating with the government in any way that would
involve them in its evil or give sanction to it as the
ordinance of God.* The act of Synod in 1831, by which

*This position of the Church is admitted in the Reformed Presbyterian-.
Advocate, the organ of the New School Church, January, 1888.

92 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

members were given the priviledge of free discussion, in
no way gave them the liberty to change the constitutional
law of the Church. The law on this subject was fixed,
and it never was repealed, and stands to-day to the con-
demnation of those who departed from it.

At the meeting of the Eastern Subordinate Synod,
held in New York, April 25, 1832, a paper, which was
designed to be a pastoral letter to the Churches, was
drawn up by the Chairman of a Committee appointed
for that purpose. This paper embodied high enconiums
and commendations of the United States government,
which government was the same as it had been when
the same gentleman had previously condemned it for its
immoralities, and denounced those who were faithfully
maintaining the Church's Testimony. This paper was
adopted, after many malicious paragraphs were expunged
because they were directly subversive to the principles
of the Church and highly abusive of some of the
members of Synod. Contrary to the decision of Synod,
and in insubordination to the highest judicatory of the
Church, the Chairman of this Committee, and a
minority of the members of the. court, gathered to-
gether and made arrangements for publi.shing the whole
document with explanatory notes, and they spread the
dangerous publication all over the Church. As a point
of law, it is not whether the standards of the Church
are correct or whether the pastoral letter taught doctrines
contrary to them ; but, those who held these views,
must either clear themselves according to the constitu-
tional law of the Chnrch, or abandon her position. The
existing law of the Church, however, condemned the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 93

expunged paragraphs and the sentiments of those who
sympathized with them, and they were compelled to do
the other thing — leave the Church. If men do not
believe the principles of the Church they are at liberty
to step down and out. But many of these misguided
brethren, by their writings and speeches, would condemn
the standards and justify their opinions.

In this state of things it was necessary to stay the
progress of defection. The only and the proper thing
to do, was to call a meeting of the court to which
those who were departing from the principles were
amenable. This was done. The Moderator of the
Eastern Subordinate Synod, on the requisition of two
Presbyteries, called a pro re nata meeting which was
held in New York, November 25, 1832. The Synod
was regularly constituted by prayer and the object of
the meeting sustained. As might be expected, protests
came in from six ministers upon whose conduct the
meeting was to act. The Clerk refused to produce the
minutes of the court, and, after three regular citations
to do so, was suspended for insubordination. The
meeting then proceeded to examine the " original draft
of a pastoral letter " and the paragraphs which had
laeen expunged, and a libel was founded thereon against
those who signed it. The counts in the libel were
five in number, viz : i. Following divisive courses.
2. Contempt of the authority of Synod. 3. Error in
Doctrine. 4. Abandonment ' of the Testimony of the
Church. 5. Slandering Synod and its members. Copies
of the libel were sent to all those to whom it applied.

94 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and they were cited to' appear before the regular
meeting of Synod, April 9, 1833, and answer to the
charges in the libel.

The pastor of the First congregation of New York
paid no attention to the act of Synod, and introduced
the suspended Clerk of Synod into the pulpit to the
discomfiture of the majority of the members. These
members who would be law-abiding and recognize the
validity of the court of God's house, were excluded
from church priviledges without charge, citation or
trial, because they would not hear a suspended minister.
In order to evade centure by the Presbytery for this-
conduct, the pastor of the First congregation applied
to the Philadelphia Presbytery to be taken under its
care, with the congregation, for there were sympathizers
with this divisive course in that city. Now everybody
knows that such conduct as that would not be tolerated
by any orderly body ; and besides this matter of order,
the Synod had fixed the boundaries of the Presbyteries,,
artd neither congregations nor Presbyteries had the
power to alter them. The Philadelphia Presbytery, or
some members of it, now installed the suspended
minister over the congregation in New York. The
congregation was placed under the Philadelphia Presby-
tery, a call moderated, the pastor settled, and one
hundred and forty members expelled in less than three
days. Certainly the "King's business required haste."
Any one at all acquainted with the rules and usage
of the Presbyterian Church law at once will say that
such transactions were unlawful and unpresbyterial.

At the meeting of the Eastern Subordinate Synod,.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 95.

April 9, 1833, the court was regularly opened with a
sermon and constituted by prayer by the Moderator.
The suspended Clerk attempted to force himself upon
the court, but was checked by a motion to appoint a
Clerk pro tcm. When this point of order was settled,
the leader of the parties against whom the libel was
framed, called upon his colleagues and they withdrew
to another house without any ofificers. Here they set
up an independent Synod, which they styled the
"Eastern Subordinate Synod." They felt sure the
regular court would sustain the libels, and they sought
this mode of contending for the rights of the sus-
pended Clerk in order to escape the application of
discipline. Though these offenders had withdrawn, the
Synod agreed that they were not free from their juris-
diction, and they proceeded with the citations to appear
and answer the libels. After citing them three times
to appear, and notifying them if they did not, they
would be proceeded against as if they were present,,
the Synod, after patient waiting, proceeded to examine
the conduct of those libeled. The Synod resolved that
the parties were guilty of the five counts in the libel,,
and were thereupon suspended from the exercise of the
ministry and priviledges in the Reformed Presbyterian
Church. The five suspended ministers were duly notified
of the action of the Eastern Subordinate Synod.

The General Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church met in Philadelphia, August 7, 1833. The
former Moderator of this Synod was among those sus-
pended, and for this reason was disqualified for taking
his position until his case was adjudicated and he

g6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

restored. The Synod, and the people whom they repre-
sented, were not willing to trust their interests to those
who had no regard for the high position of the Church
as a witness for Jesus, and who trampled all Presby-
terial law and order under their feet. They must make
amends or be self-excluded from participation in the
transactions of the court. Supposing the proceedings
of the Eastern Subordinate Synod were held by some
to be invalid or unjust, the General Synod could neither
disannul nor act upon them, until it was constituted
and the matter came regularly before it. The Modera-
tor's alternate was then called upon to open the Synod
by a sermon. At this juncture a disturbance was
created ; and, as the church in which the Synod met
was in possession of the party against whom the
charges were made, and because they had invoked the
aid of the police in case of a disturbance, for the
sake of peace, the majority, who held the testimony
intact, withdrew from the house, and met in another
place where the sermon was preached and the Synod
regularly constituted. It is not customary for majori-
ties to secede, especially when they are in the right,
but because of the peculiar circumstances of this case,
and for the sake of peace, the majority manifested
the Christian spirit and withdrew from the brethren
who were walking disorderly. While those who
abandoned the principles of the Church were minis-
terially in the minority, the membership throughout the
Church was about equally divided. The misguided
brethren set up an independent Synod and styled it
that of the "Reformed Presbyterian Church." Since

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 9/

that day the two denominations have been known as
the " Old Light " and " New Light," because the one
adheres strenuously to the distinctive principles of the
Church as they had always been held, and the other
abandoned them in 1833.

Now in order to show which party adheres to the
true position of the Church, and is thereby entitled to-
the name, a comparison of the " Terms of Communion "
may be helpful.

TERMS OF 1806.

1. An acknowledgment of the Scriptures of the Old and New Testa-
ments to be the Word of God. ,

2. An acknowledgment that the whole doctrine of the Westminster
Confession of Faith, and the Catechisms, Larger and Shorter, are agree-
able unto, and founded upon, the Scriptures.

3. An acknowledgment of the divine right of one unalterable form
of Church Government and manner of worship — and that these are,
for substance, justly exhibited in that form of Church Government
and Directory for Worship agreed upon by the assembly of divines at
Westminster, as they were received by the Church of Scotland.

4. An acknowledgment that Public Covenanting is an ordinance of
God, to be observed by Churches and Nations under the New Testa-
ment Dispensation — and that those Vows, namely, that which was
entered into by the Church and Kingdom of Scotland, called the
National Covenant, and that which was afterwards entered into by
the three Kingdoms, Scotland, England, and Ireland, and by the
Reformed Churches in those Kingdoms, usually called the Solemn
League and Covenant, were entered into in the true spirit of that
institution — and that the obligation of these Covenants extends to those
who were represented in the taking of them, although removed to
this or any other part of the world, in so far as they bind to duties
not peculiar to the Church in the British Isles, but applicable in all
lands.

5. An approbation of the faithful contendings of the martyrs of
Jesus, and of the present Reformed Covenanted Churches in Britain
and Ireland, against Paganism, Popery and Prelacy, and against immoral

•9o HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

•Constitutions of civil government, together with all Erastian tolerations
and persecutions which flow therefrom, as containing a noble example
for us and our posterity to follow in contending for all divine truth,
and in testifying against all contrary evils which may exist in the
corrupt Constitutions of either Church or State.

6. An approbation of the doctrines contained in the Declaration
and Testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in North America,
in defence of truth and in opposition to error.

These, together with due subordination in the Lord to the authority
of the Reformed Presbytery in North America, and a regular life and
conversation, form the bonds of our ecclesiastical union.

Those were the Terms in use by the whole body
previous to 1833. Now' we will place side by side
the Terms of each body at the present time for com-
parison with those of 1 806 :

Present Terms of Old School Body. Present Terms of New School

1. An acknowledgment of the
Scriptures of the Old and New
Testaments to be the Word of
God, and the only rule of faith
and manners.

2. An acknowledgment that the
whole doctrine of the Westmins-
ter Confession of Faith, and the
Catechisms, Larger and Shorter,
are agreeable unto, and founded
upon, the Scriptures.

3. An acknowledgment of the
divine right of one unalterable

1. An acknowledgement of the
Scriptures of the Old and New
Testaments to be the Word of
God.

2. An acknowledgment of the
doctrines of the Westminster
Confession of Faith, Catechisms,
Larger and Shorter, and Re-
formation Principles Exhibited, the
Testimony of the Church — as em-
bodying, according to the Word
of God, the great principles of
the Covenanted Presbyterian Re-
formation, to the maintenance of
which this Church is obliged by
solemn Covenant engagements.

3. An acknowledgement that
the Lord Jesus Christ, the only

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA.

99

form of Church Government and
manner of worship — and that these
are, for substance, justly exhibited
in the form of Church Govern-
ment and Directory for Worship
agreed upon by the assembly of
■divines at Westminster, as they
were received by the Church of
Scotland.

4. An acknowledgment of public
Covenanting as an ordinance of
God to be observed by Churches
and Nations ; and of the perpetual
obligation of public Covenants ;
and of the obligation upon this
Church of the Covenant entered
into in 1871, in which are em-
bodied the engagements of the
National Covenant of Scotland and
of the Solemn League and Cove-
nant, so far as applicable in this
land.

5. An approbation of the faith-
ful contendings of the martyrs of
Jesus, and of the present Reformed
Covenanted Churches in Britain
and Ireland, against Paganism,
Popery, and Prelacy, and against
immoral Constitutions of civil gov-
ernment, together with all Erastian
tolerations and persecutions which
flow therefrom, as containing a
noble example for us and our
posterity to follow in contending
for all divine truth, and in testi-
fying against all contrary evils
which may exist in the corrupt
■Constitutions of either Church or
■State.

Redeemer and Head of His
Church, has appointed one per-
manent form of ecclesiastical
government ; and that this form
is, by divine right, Presbyterian.

4. An acknowledgment that pub-
lic, social covenanting, upon proper
occasions, is an ordinance of God,
and that such moral deeds as re-
spect the future, whether ecclesias-
tical or civil, are of continued obli-
gation, as well as upon those repre-
sented in the taking of them as
upon those who actually covenant,
until the ends of them be effected.

5. An acknowledgment of the
faithful contendings of the martyrs
of Jesus, and a recognition of all as
brethren, in every land, who main-
tain a Scriptural Testimony in be-
half of the attainments and cause
of the Reformation, against all that
is contrary to sound doctrine and
the power of godliness.

lOO HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

6. An approbation of the doc- 6. A practical adorning of the

trines contained in the Declara- doctrine of God our Saviour, by a
tion and Testimony of the Re- life and conversation becoming the
formed Presbyterian Church in gospel, together with due subor-
North America, in defence of dination in the Lord, to the author-
truth, and in opposition to error. ity of the Synod of the Reformed

These, together with due sub- Presbyterian Church in North
ordination in the Lord to the America,
authority of the Synod of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church in
North America, and a regular life
and conversation, form the bonds
of our ecclesiastical union.

According to the spirit of the doctrines and history
of the Covenanter Church, the Old School body re-
newed the Covenants in 1871, after the example of
their ancestors, and their fourth term of communion
was changed in 1878, to embrace this step, and
embodies in it all that is implied in the term of 1806.
Previous to 1878, the term was precisely the same as
that of 1806. At a glance, and with a clear percep-
tion of truth, the candid reader can see that the New
School brethren have cast out of their terms the
peculiar and distinctive profession of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church. In the second term they slyly
drop out the word " Avhole " from the Westminster
standards- in order to make them more palatable to
the tastes of those bodies with which they hoped to
unite. In the third term they make no reference what-
ever to the document which is the standard of the
Church, and they have cut out all that refers to a
form of worship, in order to leave matters open for
the reception of innovations in the future. In the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. lOI

fourth term, which is the distinguishing and important
one, they make no allusion whatever to Churches and
Nations Covenanting ; they have broken the link that
bound them to the past ; they do not acknowledge
any peculiar connection with the Covenants of our
fathers in Scotland ; they have never Covenanted in
America, and hence have repudiated the entire principles
of the Reformation, and yet claim and demand the
name Covenanter! In the fifth term, which is a strange
conglomeration compared to the genuine one, they fail
to give the true import of that term ; they leave out
all that relates to " contending against immoral Con-
stitutions of civil government," and yet claim and
demand the name Reformed Presbyterian! They make
no reference to the witnessing Church in Britain and
Ireland, and, on the whole, this term is so indefinite
that any Protestant could take it no matter what his
views were about the martyrs of Scotland, or whether
he knew" that for which they so heroicly contended.
In the " Historical Part " of the Testimony it is a re-
markable fact that they have left out that part which
assigns a distinguished place to the Covenants. This
omission is remarkable because the omitted paragraph
is the only one which gives the organization of the
first Reformed Presbytery, and refers to two occasions
upon which the Church renewed the Covenants. That
all may see the force of this important omission by
the New School brethren, this paragraph Avill here be
inserted :

" For more than a third of a century, Mr. McMillan
sustained alone the banner of a Covenanted Reforma-

I02 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

tion, until, b)- the accession of Mr. Nairn, the way
was opened for the constitution of the Ref0RME1>
Presbytery. This important event took place, August
I, 1743. In the meantime, however, the scattered
remnant had met at Auchinsaugh, July 24, 1712, and
there renewed the Covenants, National and Solemn
League, with confession of sins, and an engagement to
duties ; as they also did. after the constitution of
Presbytery, at Crawford-John, in the year 1745."*

We regard that paragraph as of great importance,
both for the date of the constitution of our Church
and for the fact that they then Covenanted. In the " Doc-
trinal Part " they have failed to bring up their Testi-
mony to contend against evils of the present day, such
as intemperance, secrecy, and others. No paragraph
appears against slavery. Now we believe that while
divine truth is unchangeable, the testimony of the
Church is progressive, and should be brought up to
apply to new aspects of evil as they arise. This is
what the Testimony requires of the Church when it
says :

" Every generation is to take care that the truth,
as stated and defended by their predecessors, shall be
maintained and faithfully transmitted together with the
result of their own contendings to the succeeding
generation."

We have no quarrel with our New School brethren

because they do not believe as we do, but we do insist

that they have no claim upon our name. It has been

clearly shown that they neither dissent from immoral

* Omitted from New School Testimony, page iii.

i'RESBVTERIAN CHURCH IX AMERICA. IO5

Constitutions nor hold or renew the ancient Co\enants,
and since these two positions constitute it a Reformed
Presbyterian Covenanting Church, they have no just
claim to such a name. After the setting up of an in-
dependent body in 1833, they flourished for awhile, but
afifiiliating too freely with other bodies they lost their
foreign mission ; and not only did ministers leave them,
but whole congregations and Presbyteries w^ent into
other denominations, and they have ceased to publish
any statistics by which to determine their strength.*
The obvious reason for their marvelous declension is
that they have no distinct ground upon which to stand.

The Synod of 1833, at Philadelphia, took the follow-
ing action in regard to those who had separated
from it :

That the members of our subordinate and inferior judicatories, and
all our people, be and hereby are warned not to recognize the authority,
or admit the interference of such ministers as have been suspended for
the maintaining of principles opposed to the standards of our church on
the subject of civil government ; as likewise of all such ministers and
others who may be confederated with them in corrupting the doctrine,
contemning the authority, and violating the order of the church; inasmuch
as these last, as well as the first, are, and hereby are declared to be,
from the nature of the opinions they maintain, and the divisive course
they pursue, prohibited from holding a seat in our courts, or exercising
authority, or any way interfering in the judicatories or congregations of
the Reformed Presbyterian Church, while maintaining such principles and
pursuing such practices.

At this same meeting, the Synod re-affirmed its
attachment to the historic and true position of the
Church in this country, by the following resolution :

*The minutes of the General Synod of 1887, reveal the fact that they
have twenty-four ministers, fourteen of whom are settled pastors ; and,
by the accession of a native, they have one missionary in India.

I04 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

That as it has alwajs been in the proceedings and history of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church, both in the land of our forefathers and
in this land, a great and leading object to bear an explicit and prac-
tical testimony to the truth respecting civil government as the ordinance
of God, and the subjection of the nations to Messiah : so it is utterly
inconsistent with our doctrinal standards and' judicial acts for any mem-
ber of this church to sit on juries, to hold offices, or swear allegiance
to the Constitution of the United States.

From that day to this the Reformed Presbyterian
Church has had little or no trouble in applying the
principles of the Church, and the members feel that it
is their duty to separate themselves from that civil
institution which refuses to own Christ as its King, and
His Word as its supreme law. If any pastors or ses-
sions allow any members to violate the law of the
Church in this respect, they deserve the same con-
demnation as those brethren who separated from us
in 1833. If any such there be, the fact is unknown
to the Church, and when discovered will be dealt with
as an offence.

In the session of 1834, at Pittsburgh, the names of
some ministers, who had identified themselves with the
New School body, were stricken from the roll. Papers
on important subjects were read and ordered published
in overture. Measures were adopted for devising a
plan by which young men could be prepared for the
service of the ministry until the Theological Seminary
was resuscitated. Arrangements were also made for
the publication of another edition of the Testimony.

At the meeting of Synod in 1836, at Pittsburgh, it
was apparent that the Church was in a flourishing
condition, and many ministers had been settled in

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IX AMERICA. I05

pastoral charges. At this meeting strong ground was
taken against the sin of slavery. The Synod disap-
proved of the plan of the Colonization Society con-
sidered as opposed to the manumission of slaves. It
was on the supposition that this Society would be
favorable to the abolition of human slavery that the
Synod had previously given it countenance. The Synod
continued to maintain the duty of the immediate and
universal emancipation of the enslaved, and disap-
proved of their transportation to Africa. Parts were
assigned to different ministers to write pieces for the
argumentative part of the Testimony. Drafts of a
"Book of Discipline" and also of "Church Govern-
ment" were read and referred. The Theological Semi-
nary was revived, located at New Alexandria, Penn-
sylvania, and Rev. Dr. J. R. Willson was chosen pro-
fessor. It • was also resolved, "That we recommend to
our people, totally to abstain from traffic in ardent
spirits." Ministers were instructed to preach on the sin
and danger of Sabbath profanation. The " Book of
Discipline and Church Government," as also the "Argu-
ment on the Arminian Controversy " were published
in overture.

The Synod of 1838, met in New York. Rev. William
Sommerville, missionary to Nova Scotia, was present
and made an address on the cause of the Reformation,
in that country. For disorderly conduct and abusive
language, a licentiate, and some persons associated with
him, were suspended from ecclesiastical priviledges. As.
there were some difficulties in the way of establishing
one Theological Seminary, according to the resolution!

106 HISTORY OF THK REFORMED

of the previous meeting, the Synod now agreed to
abandon the idea of locating it at New Alexandria,
and rescinded their former action. It was then resolved
to establish two Seminaries — one at Coldenham, New
York, in which Rev. Dr. J. R. Willson was continued
professor ; and the other at Allegheny, Pennsylvania, in
which Rev. Thomas Sproull was chosen professor.
Boards of Superintendents were chosen, whose duty
should be to arrange the course of study. The
Church's relation to the Anti-Slavery society again
came up for settlement, and the Synod declared its
approbation and patronage of the cause of abolition,
but warned its members against "voluntary associations"
Avith men of erroneous principles and corrupt practices.
If it was to become a political society, then Covenan-
ters must withdraw. The Synod ■ then passed the
following resolution :

" That the Testimony of this Church is directed
against, not only the practical evil of slavery, but also
against the immoral principles in the Constitution of
the United States, by which this wicked system is
supported ; we, therefore, declare to the Church and
to the world, that from all associations which propose,
by an act homologating the Constitution of the United
States, to remove the evil of slavery, it is our duty
and determination to stand aloof."

The Synod of 1840, met in the city of Allegheny.
A letter from the Rev. Dr. John T. Pressly of the
Associate Reformed Church in behalf of a " Convention
of Reformed Churches " was received. The Committee
appointed to examine the letter reported, in substance,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 107

that " while this Synod laments schism in the Church,
yet knowing that societies and individuals are more
solicitous about the removal of evils than to ascertain
their causes and natures; and because most of these
schisms exist from the departure of some from Re-
formation attainments ; and as there is no disposition on
the part of those who have departed to retrace their
steps, but desire to strike out of certain articles of
agreement the doctrine of the power of the civil magistrate
from the Confession ; and, as this Synod will not do
any act that would be construed as implying an abandon-
ment of any part of her terms of communion, resolved
that they could not comply with the invitation to attend
such a Convention." (^n motion Synod decreed the
union of the Eastern and Western Theological Semi-
naries under the joint care of both the professors, and
the Seminary was located in the city of Allegheny,
The members of the Church were urged to a hearty
support of this important institution. A resolution was
again presented to prohibit the traffic in ardent spirits
or intoxicating liquors by members of the Church.

The Synod of 1841, met at Utica, Ohio. A
memorial from the Missionary Society of the Phila-
delphia congregation was received, urging the Synod
to take steps for the immediate establishment of a
Foreign Mission. Since the last meeting of Synod, two
ministers of the Ohio Presbytery had followed divisive
courses and left the communion of the Church for the
alleged reason that the Synod had postponed its
deliverance on "voluntary associations," and they re-
garded the Synod as unfaithful to its duty. These

I08 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

misguided men erected the " Reformed Presbytery," and
a few disciples gathered around them. The conduct of
these schismatics brought the Synod to the fuller con-
sideration of the question, and now adopted the follow-
ing resolutions :

1. That our solemn covenant obligations demand our social as
well as individual adherence to the whole law of God, in dependence
on whose grace all our endeavors and engagements are to be made
for the performance of every duty and the attainment of every lawful
object.

2. That those confederated associations for declared moral purposes,
which pay no express regard to a belief in the Lord Jesus Christ
for salvation, nor to a dependence on His Spirit for guidance in all
duty, And in the special duties of such associations in particular, but
are based on principles of legalism, and admit promiscuously all
classes of their members to perform religious as well as other duties,
are not entered into in the true spirit of the solemn deeds of our cove-
nant forefathers.

3. That our ministers and people be admonished to refuse uniting
unnecessarily in associations with the erroneous and wicked, when a
bond of confederation is required to be signed implying identity with
such persons.

4. That in associations also of a merely civil nature, when in the
prosecution of their respective charters they are known to have been
guilty of immorality, such as turnpike companies, steamboats, &c., in
the desecration of the holy Sabbath, Reformed Presbyterians should
have no participation.

If those men who went out were grieved only be-
cause of Synod's negligence to do as it now did, they
would have returned to the Church of their fathers.
This they never did. The one died in obscurity in
1845, ^'""^^ the other strenuously maintained his peculiar
views alone until his death in 1887.

The subject of the traffic in intoxicating liquors
had often been a matter of consideration by Synod,.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. lOQ-

and, against this sinful and nefarious business the Synod
had taken only too mild measures. As the subject
had been fully investigated, and the destructive employ-
ment fully exhibited by Committees previous!}' appointed,
the Synod was now prepared to adopt the following-
preamble and resolutions :

Whereas, The traffic in ardent spirits for hixitrious purposes and as
a beverage has been a fruitful source of scandal and crime ; therefore
resolved,

1. That members of this church be and hereby are prohibited
from engaging in or continuing in this traffic ; and

2. That wherever there are individuals employed in this traffic,
sessions are hereby directed to deal with them immediately in such
a way that this evil may be removed from the church in the best
and speediest manner.

As the Church had always held as a term of com-
munion that "the Scriptures of the Old and New
Testaments are the only rule of faith and manners,''
this latter clause was directed to be inserted in its
proper place in the first term of communion. A Com-
mittee was also appointed to continue the " Historical
Part" of the Testimony with emendations of the same.
A Committee was appointed to prepare a "draft of
the National Covenant and of the Solemn League and
Covenant, adapted to the present circumstances of
the Church and of the world." Mild complaints
occasionally came before Synod in the matter of read-
ing out the lines in pubic worship, but the court did
not consider these difficulties of sufficient magnitude
to justify the formation of a fixed law on the subject.
Efforts were made for the permanent support of the
Seminary.

• lO HISTORY Ol-- THK KKFORMED

The Synod of 1843, met in the city of Rochester.
New York. The friendly correspondence with the Synod
of Ireland, which had been disturbed by the gross
misrepresentations of the Church by those who had
abandoned her testimony in 1833, was now resumed,
ami a most affectionate letter from the brethren beyond
the sea was received. Friendly relations and fraternal
greetings have since been annually exchanged with
the Covenanted brethren in both Scotland and Ireland.
The reports from all the Presbyteries were of an
encouraging character, and revealed the fact that the
number of congregations and missionary stations, as
well as ministers and licentiates, had greatly increased
since the last meeting. The Committee previously
appointed for the purpose, reported the draft of a
Covenant, which was published in overture, and sent
down to the inferior courts for them to report upon
at the next meeting. Copies were also sent to the
sister judicatories in Scotland and Ireland for the same
purpose. Several cases of discipline of a local interest
were adjudicated, but nothing of vital importance was
transacted at this meeting.

The Synod of 1845, ^'^^^ ''I the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. Many new ministers appeared in this
session. Reports revealed the fact that several new
congregations had been organized in the West, and
that missionary work was being done among the
colored people who had fled to the North. The
Church generally was in a healthy condition. There
was manifest a general awakening on the subject of
missions at home and abroad. The Committee previously

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN A>H-:RICA. Ill

appointed to designate a field for missionar}' operations,
and had selected the Island of St. Thomas, now were
prepared to report that on account of the peculiar hin-
drances in the way in that field they were undecided
as to the practicability of beginning operations in that
Island. A special Committee on Covenanting was ap-
pointed, and the matter referred for the present. The
subject of the " deacon '" again came regularly before the
Synod, and, after some amendments and discussion, the
following preamble and resolutions were unanimously
adopted :

Whereas, The office of deacon is a divine institution, the functions of
which are declared in the Form of Church Government to be "To take
special care in distributing to the necessities of the poor," and of which
it is said in Reformation Principles that he '■ has no power except about
the temporalities of the Church," and —

Whereas, Said office has fallen very extensively into neglect for many
years ; and —

Whereas, It is the desire of this court that uniformity in practice be
maintained in all our congregations ; and —

Whereas, Some misunderstanding seems to exist in relation to the
ground of our Covenanted uniformity in practice in respect to the
subject of deacons as settled at the Second Reformation ; and —

Whereas, Faithfulness to the Church's Head requires the re-assertion
of this ground of practical uniformity as it then obtained : therefore —

Resok'tuf, 1st, That our Covenanted uniformity does not recognize as
of divine right the congregational trustee, but the Scriptural deacon as
stated in the preamble.

Resoh',;i, 2d, That said Covenanted uniformity does not recognize as
of divine right a Consistory of ministers, elders and deacons, having
authority to enact, govern and control the Church, either in her spiritual
or temporal concerns, or as having any authority or power whatever,
except for consultation and advice for the well ordering of the temporal
affairs of the congregation.

A Board of Domestic Missions was appointed, consist-
ing of six members, their duties being to receive and

112 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

disburse monies to needy stations, and to open up new
fields of labor at home. A plan for completing the
"Argumentative Part " of the Testimony was considered,
and subjects and writers were assigned for the comple-
tion of this work. Some changes took place with
reference to the Theological Seminary. Rev. Thomas
Sproull resigned his professorate ; the location was
changed from the city of Allegheny to the city of
Cincinnati, Ohio ; the Board of Inspection resigned and
a new one was appointed ; and Rev. Dr. J. R. Willson
continued to be the professor in the Seminar)-.

The Synod of 1847, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. By an appointment of the Board of
Foreign Missions, the Rev. J. B. Johnston had made
an exploring tour through the Island of Hayti, and
the Board reported the selection of this Island as the
field of operations, and the city of Port au Prince as
the starting point and center of work. Several young-
men were chosen as missionaries, but declined, and
finally the Rev. Joseph W. Morton and Mr. Robert
J. Dodds accepted appointments. Mr. Morton entered
upon the work in Hayti the same year, a history of
which Mission will be found in another part of this
volume. Several generous bequests were made to the
Theological Seminary, and efforts were made for the
establishing of a literary institution under the care of
the Synod.

The Synod of 1849, met in the city of Philadelphia,
The Lakes Presbytery reported that they had founded
"Geneva Hall," at Northwood, Ohio, April, 1848, and
that the institution was under the superintendence of

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. II 3

the Rev. J. B. Johnston. The Pittsburg Presbytery also
reported the establishment of Westminster College and
Female Seminfiry, at Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, and
that buildings were about to be erected. This enter-
prise was largely carried on by the generous donations
of Mr. James Kelly. The missionary to Hayti having
changed his beliefs in reference to the Christian Sabbath,
appeared in court, and, having been libeled, was cited
to appear and answer the charges. The following is the
report of Synod on this case :

Order of the day, viz : the case of Mr. Morton called for, the libel
was then read by the» Clerk ; when Mr. Morton having, in reply to the
Moderator, answered that he was prepared for trial, the substance of
the libel was again stated in his hearing. Mr. Morton was then called
upon, according to the rule provided for such cases, either to confess
the charge or put himself upon his trial. Mr. Morton in return ac-
knowledged that he had denied that the day commonly called tha
Christian Sabbath is so by Divine appointment, and then proceeded
to plead the irrelevancy of the charge by endeavoring to prove the
perpetuity of the law for the observance of the seventh day. While
so doing he was arrested by the Moderator, who informed him that
the charge contained in the libel was such that Mr. Morton could
only prove its irrelevancy to censure by proving that the appropriation
of the first day of the week, known as the Christian Sabbath, to
secular employments, or teaching so to do, is not relevant to censure,
which attempt the Moderator would consider disorderly, and would
not allow.

From this decision a member appealed, when the Moderator's
•decision was unanimously sustained. Upon this, Mr. Morton declined
the authority of the court.

Resolved, That Mr. Morton's appointment as missionary to Hayti
be revoked.

Resolved, That inasmuch as Mr. Morton has now publicly declined
the authority of this court, he be suspended from the exercise of the
Christian ministry, and from the privileges of the Reformed Presby-
terian Church. The Moderator then publicly pronounced the sentence
of suspension on Mr. Morton, agreeably to the above resolution.

114 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

By this defection the Hayti Mission was abandoned,,
and Mr. Dodds was not sent out as was expected. Two
ministers were admonished and warned that in the
future they were not to teach doctrines contrary to the
standards of the Church which are founded upon the
Word of God. The Committee to which were referred
certain memorials on the subject of slavery reported
the following :

The petitioners, lamenting the prevalent ignorance of our testimony
against this great evil, and the countenance given to it by most Christian
denominations in the United States, respectfully ask Synod, ist. To re-
assert their position in regard to the exclusion of ^ave-holders from her
fellowship, and her dissent from the United States Constitution, on
this, with other grounds. 2d. They ask that, if practicable, some more
efficient means may be employed for the diffusion of our doctrines and
testimony on this subject, particularly that a remonstrance may be
addressed to the principal slave-holding Churches.

In regard to the first of these petitions, we remark that the declara-
tions contained in the Historical part of our testimony, published, of
course, by the Presbytery itself, furnish ample testimony of the
position occupied on slavery by this Church. We refer to the follow-
ing statements, "The Presbytery resolved to purge the Church of this
dreadful evil : they enacted that no slave-holders should be retained in
their Communion." "The Presbytery required of their connexions a
general emancipation." "No slave-holder is since admitted to their
Communion." See Hist. Test. pp. 154, 155, Ed. 1835. Now, while it is
true, as stated in one of the memorials, that we have not in our
hands the original acts, excluding all slave-holders, we have the
Presbytery itself as evidence that this was the purport and design of
their actions. This, with the uniform practice of the Church — for in
the language of the testimony, "No slave-holder is. since (1800) ad-
mitted to their Communion " — in the judgment of your committee as
completely defines the position of this Church in regard to ecclesiastical
fellowship with slave-holders as it is possible to do. A sight of the
original acts might gratify curiosity, but could not shed any additional
light upon that which is already as clear as the noon-day. No slave-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. II 5

holder can have privileges in the Reformed Presbyterian Church. We
say the same of our position as a Church in relation to the civil
institutions of the country. The Historical Testimony, pp 152, 153,
154, and the frequent incidental actings since are sufficiently explicit
on this point. Covenanters have not sworn, and do not swear oaths
to the institutions of the country, among other reasons, because the
Constitution of the United States contains compromises with slave-
holding interests, and guarantees for the institution itself protection
so long as it exists in the slave-holding States. We have no further
action to recommend on either of these points.

2d. In regard to a remonstrance to be addressed to slave-holding
Churches, we agree with the petitioners that it is important that this
Church take some measures to bring her testimony more directly
before the Churches, and would recommend that a Committee of three
be appointed to prepare a remonstrance of the kind contemplated,
embodying the views and position of this Church on the whole
question, said Committee to publish the remonstrance on their own
responsibility, as to the argunJients and expressions which they may
see fit to employ.

The Theological Seminary was removed from Cincin-
nati to Northwood, Ohio, and it and the Literary In.stitu-
tion were taken under the care of Synod. Students now
frequently persued their literary and theological courses
at the same time. Rev. Dr. J. R. Willson was continued
professor, and received the assistance of the professors of
Geneva Hall in some departments of study.

The Synod of 185 1, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. Quite a number of ministers had been
ordained and installed over pastoral charges, and took
their seats in the court. Several important cases of
discipline came up for adjudication, and were judiciousl)-
disposed of. Some of these related to the organization
of congregations without deacons. Events arising out
of conflicting interests and personal feelings, the Synod

^Il6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

deemed it proper to suspend the Theological Seminary
for the present, and the students were directed to prose-
cute their studies under the care of their respective
Presbyteries. Dr. Willson was honorably retired as
emeritus professor. The librar)' and all monies were
given into the hands of Committees to hold in trust for
Synod. The Board of Domestic Missions reported that
much mone)- had been contributed and that many pro-
mising stations had been opened up. A systematic
plan for the operations of home missions was inaugurated,
and much interest manifested in this part of the work
of the Church. The Committee appointed to express
the views of the Church in reference to the Fugitive
Slave Law. reported the following preamble and
resolutions :

As human enactments are to be tested by the Divine law ; and as
it is the duty of the church to testify against all that is in opposition
to the law of God ; and as her Head came " to proclaim liberty to
the captive," so she should open her month for the dumb. Therefore,

1. Resolved, That this Synod reiterate its uncompromising opposi-
tion to the institution of slavery as a system of complicated and
unmitigated wrong, and utterly repudiate all the arguments and excuses
of slaveholders and their abettors for its continuance ; and recommend
to all our people more vigorous and persevering efforts for its removal.

2. That the fugitive slave law is essentially tyrannical ; not only
securing the enslavement of those who are in fact free, but in for-
bidding freemen to exercise the sympathies of Christian compassion,
and commanding them to assist in returning men to cruel bondage.
It brings deserved infamy upon our land, dishonors God, and is
expressly contrary to the plainest precepts of this law — " Thou shalt
not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his
master unto thee." "Bewray not him that wandereth." "Relieve the
oppressed." .\nd it is the duty of all not only to refuse compliance

swith its provisions, but to show others its hideous enormity.

3. That the main element of the fugitive slave law naturally

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. II7

flows from the provisions of the Constitution of the United States
upholding slavery. Art. 4, Sec. 2. " No person held to service or
labor in one State, under the laws thereof, escaping into another,
shall, in consequence of any law or regulation therein, be discharged
from such service or labor; but shall be delivered up on claim of
the party to whom such service or labor may be due." Art. 4, Sec.
I. "Full faith and credit shall be given in each State to the public
acts, records and judicial proceedings of every other State." And we
see in this another exemplification of the immorality of the United
States Government, and it shows clearly the evil of swearing oaths of
allegiance, and thus sustaining slavery.

4. That those ministers of the gospel who teach the binding obliga-
tion of this law to be obeyed for conscience's sake, and the conduct of
-those Christians who sustain the law, hypocritically professing to love
God while they hate the negro, bring reproach upon religion, en-
courage infidelity, and rivet still more tightly the chains of the
•oppressed.

5. That it is the duty of the ministers of Christ to teach clearly
ihat magistrates in Christian lands should yield to the authority of
•God's law, and that any law that is in opposition to the precepts of
the Bible does not bind the conscience, and ought to be resisted by
•every means consistent with religion ; for we must obey God rather
than men.

6. That we recognize with gratitude the hand of God in making this
infamous law the means of showing many the enormous evil of slavery,
.and convincing them of their practical and constitutional connection
with slavery ; and that we rejoice in the efforts that are making to free
rsome of the Churches from the incubus of slavery. And we trust that
the " Free Churches " will, ere long, see the sin of upholding a govern-
ment that rejects the law of God ; and that they and we, upon the

♦ broad ground of Christian principles, may labor to bring this nation
into submission to God's higher law.

The Rev. William Wilson of the New School body,
who desired to return to the communion of the Re-
formed Presbyterian Church upon certain conditions con-
.tained in papers laid before the court, learnin£^ that

Il8 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

he could not enter the body without a full reception
of all her principles, withdrew his papers.

The Synod of 1853, met in the city of New York.
Synod re-affirmed its deliverance of 1847, that the con-
sistory, an assembly composed of the pastor, elder.s
and deacons to manage the temporalities of the Church,,
is not an ecclesiastical court. The special Committee
to which was referred the subject of civil legislation
against the traffic in ardent spirits, reported the follow-
ing which was adopted by Synod :

The Church of Christ is a divinely instituted association, organized,
not only for the conversion of sinners and sanctification ot saints, but
for the reformation of society ; and as a reformatory association, she
should be in advance of the world in all reformatory movements. la
the temperance reform we would not only be active, but until the object
of that reform is accomplished, would use all the means in our power
to give a proper direction to the efforts put forth by others. We would
not close our eyes to the fact that the tide of intemperance, now flood-
ing this land, is truly alarming, calling not only for mourning and com-
miseration, but for greater activity on the part of the Church to stem
that torrent that the appalling amount of crime and misery, consequent
upon the use of intoxicating drinks, may be speedily diminished, and
the evil wholly removed.

The principles involved in the law of the Church, and particularly
set forth in the action of this Synod in 1841, should be carried out
in civil legislation so as to forbid, and wholly prevent, the traffic in
intoxicating drinks as beverages. Civil government is intended, among
other objects, to protect the people against the wrongs inflicted by
venders of ardent spirits. This can be done effectually only by utterly
prohibiting the traffic. Therefore,

Resolved, i. That we hail with joy the efforts that have been made
recently in several of the States, to suppress entirely the traffic in
intoxicating drinks, and we earnestly hope that the work may go on
until there be no place where license will be given, or the protection
of law afforded to that traffic, so wicked and so ruinous in Its
consequences,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. II9

Resolved, 2. That this Synod gives its hearty approbation to the
principles involved in the law commonly called the Maine Liquor
Law, viz ; the right and the duty of civil government to wholly prohibit
the sale of intoxicating drinks, except for medicinal, chemical, mechani-
cal, and sacramental purposes.

Resolved, 3. That in the temperance reform we depend wholly upon
the Spirit of God for success, and regard the gospel of Jesus Christ
as the only efficient means of permanently removing the evil.

The Synod embodied the following reformatory senti-
ment in its proceedings at this session :

There are two great evils which must be removed from the world
before the state of society can be healthy : Popery, which directly
enslaves the soul and indirectly the body ; Slavery, which directly
enslaves the body and indirectly the, soul. We cannot, consistently,
claim the character of Reformers if we do not untiringly employ the
armour of light on the right and left against these great, and alas !
yet growing evils in our land. We may incur some temporary odium,
and, perhaps, not only be reproached, but persecuted on this account ;
but, assuredly, the advocates of impartial liberty for the souls and
bodies of men will prevail, and their memories be savory if they die
in the field of contest ; and their persons will be honoured if they
survive the strife.

The Synod of 1855, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. The reports of Presbyteries revealed the
fact that there had been great emigration to the
Western States and Territories, and that mission
stations were springing up in various places, demand-
ing the care of the Mission Board. A delegation from
the New School body invited the Synod to attend a
farewell missionary meeting in Pittsburg, and also ex-
pressed the Christian affection and respect of the body
they represented. The Committee preparing a " Form
of Covenant," reported, and it was published in the
appendix to the minutes of Synod. Arrangements were

120 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

made to renew the Covenants, at the next meeting
of Synod, if the way should be open. The organiza-
tion of a Foreign Mission was recommended, as well
as the resuscitation of the Theological Seminary.

The Synod of 1856, met in the city of Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania. The Board of Foreign Missions selected
Syria as the field of operations, and, after .several
elections, the Rev. Robert J. Dodds and Mr. Joseph
Beattie, licentiate, accepted appointments to that field.
They left the same Fall for the scene of their labors.

The Theological Seminary was reorganized. and
located in the city of Allegheny, Pennsylvania, where
it has since remained. Revs. Drs. James Christie and
Thomas Sproull were chosen professors. A friendly cor-
respondence was carried on with the Associate Presby-
terian Church and New School body, but nothing
agreed upon as a basis of union.

The Synod of 1857, met in Northwood, Ohio. There
was a large delegation and much interest manifested
in all the proceedings. The vexed question of " the
deacon " disturbed some parts of the Church for many
years, and the following paper, after being amended,
was adopted, and is as follows :

Whereas, Much of our troubles in the Church, and at our meetings
of Synod for some years past, has originated in the attempts, too often
successful, to form congregations on the principle known as that of
"elective affinity;" as also in the formation of congregations by com-
missions of Synod, and not by Presbyteries to whom the business of
organizing congregations belongs ; therefore.

Resolved, I. That hereafter no congregation shall be organized by
any Presbytery on the principle of elective affinity, to evade discipline,
or reconcile parties at variance, or to settle difficulties which properly

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 121

belong to the discipline of the Church, or upon a difl'erence in prin-
ciple, or the meaning of the Standards of the Church.

Resolved, 2. Synod shall hereafter leave the organization of con-
gregations to the Presbyteries to whom it belongs ; and

Whereas, The Form of Church Government recognizes deacons
as ordained officers in the Church, and "requisite" among the officers
of a particular congregation, and this by the will and appointment of
the Lord Jesus Christ ; and

Whereas, The Form of Church Government defines the duty
of the deacon to be " to take special care in distributing to the
necessities of the poor," and the Testimony declares that the "deacons
have no power except about the temporalities of the Church ;" and

Whereas, This office has not yet been exemplified in all our
congregations ; therefore

Resolved, i. That Presbyteries be directed to exercise due care and
diligence to have deacons chosen and ordained in congregations where
they are still wanting, with no other powers than those defined in
the Standards.

Resohed, 2. That Presbyteries be enjoined in organizing new con-
gregations, to see to it that deacons be chosen and ordained in them.

Resolved, 3. That no action of last Synod was intended to rescind
or repeal the resolutions of 1845 and 1847, on the subject of the
deacon's office, the trustee or consistory, nor were they so affected.

An elaborate and convincing report on "Systematic
Beneficence and a Sustentation Fund " was submitted
and its claims enforced. The reports from all the
Presbyteries were full, satisfactory, and represented the
Church to be ^in a generally good condition. Another
lengthy report was submitted on the subject of slavery,
and the Church resolved to plead with more earnest-
ness for the cause of the oppressed, and work more
diligently for the emancipation of the slave. Large
contributions and bequests were made to the support
of the Theological Seminary, and a plan of endow-
ment was submitted. The Foreign and Domestic
Mission Boards reported affairs to be in an encour-

122 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

aging condition, and the Church was generally support-
ing these departments of her work. The Synod was not
yet ready to enter into the work of Covenanting.

During the year 1858, a conference of two Com-
mittees from the Synod and the General Synod of the
Reformed Presbyterian Churches, met in the city of
Allegheny, Pennsylvania, to confer on the subject of
union. There were present of the Synod, Revs.
Thomas Sproull, J. B. John.ston and J. M. Willson.
Of the General Synod, Revs. Hugh McMillan, A. W.
Black, William Wilson and J. N. McLeod. Dr. Sproull
was chosen Chairman, and Dr. McLeod, Secretary.
After much discussion and the reading of letters which
had passed between the Committees and the Synods,
and after holding several sessions, the delegates finally
submitted the grounds upon which a union could be
effected. Rev. J. B. Johnston submitted the following,
in behalf of the Synod, as the only ground • upon
which a reunion could be effected :

The Committee present the brethren, the Committee of the other
Synod, the following theses, as embracing for substance the ground on
which we understand the Reformed Presbyterian Church stood in
regard io civil relations anterior to 1833, and as the only ground on
which we can give any encouragement to our brethren to expect that
a re-union of the two Synods can be effected.

1. That we dissent from the Constitution of the United States,
because of its immoralities.

2. That this dissent from the Constitution requires to abstain from
the oath of allegiance, and from oaths of ofifice binding to support
the Constitution.

3. That it prohibits voting for officers who must be qualified by
an oath to support the Constitution.

4. That it prohibits sitting on juries, as e.xplained by our Testi-
mony, understanding that such juries do not include various other

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 23

juries, where there is neither an incorporation with the government,
an oath to an immoral law, nor any implied engagement to support
1he Constitution.

Rev. Andrew W. Black then read the following
statement on behalf of the General Synod, in reply to
the these.s already presented :

1. The ground occupied by the Reformed Presbyterian Church in
reference to the civil institutions of the United States, State and
Federal, prior to the disruption, is as expressed in her own language
in 1821, "That no connection with the laws, officers, or the order of
the State, is forbidden by the Church, except what truly involves
immorality."

2. That in the application of the above principles, we regard our-
selves as dissenters from immorally constituted civil establishments ;
that is to say, whenever the recognition of an immoral law is made ,
essential to the action of the juror ; or to the exercise of the elective
franchise ; or to holding civil oflfice ; or to the discharge of any other
>civil duty. Reformed Presbyterians must abstain from all such acts, as
involving immorality.

3. That the moral character of the Federal Constitution of the
United States, being a matter of opinion, and undecided by any com-
petent authority, the recognition or non-recognition of it should not be
jnade a term of ecclesiastical communion.

4. We therefore recommend, that as the two churches are united in
their views of the great principles of civil government, and in the belief
and declaration of the fact that no communion should be held with im-
morality, the ground of the re-union should be the exercise of forbear-
ance in regard to those special governmental questions by which they
are now divided. It is the belief of this Committee that the Reformed
Presbyterian Church was divided, not by difference of religious princi-
ples, but by other causes, as is shown in the letter, to which a reply is
expected.

5. Should the brethren of the other Committee and the Synod not
agree to these grounds of re-union, we recommend to the ministers and
members of these Churches to treat each other with Christian courtesy
and respect, and to co-operate as far as possible on the large common
ground they occupy as Reformed Presbyterians.

124 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

A rc-union of these bodies has never been effected
for the reason that the one party is not willing
to come back to the high position from which it
departed in 1833, and the other is not prepared to
abandon the historic and true position of the Church.

The Synod of 1859, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. A communication from the General
Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church was
received, with a basis of union. The following is the
reply :

Dear Brethren — Your letter containing a resolution of your Reverend
Body, and inclosing a copy of the Basis of Union of the United Pres-
byterian Church, was received during the session of our Synod.

Your kind and fraternal greeting we most heartily reciprocate, and
unite with you in the prayer that " the great King and Head of the
Church will direct the way by which the friends of Zion and of the
truth shall be led to see eye to eye." We have His sure promise
that He will accomplish this in his own time.

The steps by which you have arrived at your present position we
have watched with attention and interest. It gives us joy to find in
your Basis of Union the statement and assertion of some of the
principles for which we have long contended. The supreme dominion
of Messiah as Lord of all — Prince of the Kings of the earth — occupies
a place in your Testimony, and our hearts rejoice on this account.
It is the application of this and kindred principles to the civil insti-
tutions of the country that has placed us in the position of dis-
senters from a government that ignores the claims of our Prince. In our
view it is only by maintaining this position that we can consistently
carry out our principles, and succeed in bringing our land into sub-
jection to its Lord and King. Our present standing has been delib-
erately taken, and in the strength of Divine grace we purpose to-
hold on till the great end — the enthronement of Messiah — shall be
effected.

In order to bring up the Testimony of the Church
to prevaling evils, the following preambles and resolu-
tion were adopted :

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 2 5.

Whereas, Secret Associations and Slavery are present evils of
enormous magnitude, and are rapidly extending their power and perni-
cious influence in this land ; and

Whereas, In our present Testimony, there is no direct and explicit
utterance against these sins proportionate to their prevalence and
heinous character ; and

Whereas, There is a demand for a new edition ; therefore,

Resolved, That Synod proceed to take, at once, the requisite steps for
adding a section on Secret Societies, and a chapter on the subject of
Slavery.

The Reformed Presbyterian Church has always been
consistent with her position and held that human
slavery is a sin against God and men. In the fearless
advocacy of the cause of the oppressed, the ministers
of this Church have been mobbed, stoned, egged and
burned in ef^gy. All manner of reproachful epithets
have been pronounced upon them. Notwithstanding
the unpopularity of the cause, they proclaimed fear-
lessly the sin of the nation and the outrage committed
upon humanity until God heard the cry of the op-
pressed and sent them deliverance.

A vacancy being created in the corps of professors
in the Theological Seminary, the Rev. James M.
Willson was chosen a professor. Geneva Hall was
taken under the care of Synod and left under its
present management. The reports from the Foreign
and Domestic Missions pronounced both these depart-
ments in a flourishing condition. The following memorial
was prepared, generally signed throughout the Church,
and transmitted :

To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States:

The memorial of the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church,
now in session in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, showeth — That, desirous to

126 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

promote the best interests of the country, and knowing that " the Most
High ruleth in the kingdom of men ;" that the Lord Jesus Christ is
" Prince of the kings of the earth " and " Governor among the nations ;"
and that the law of God is the " law ;" knowing, also, that nations and
rulers should acknowledge God and submit to our Lord Jesus Christ,
obeying God's commands, your memorialists are also convinced that this
nation does not thus submit itself to God in its Constitution, and exposes
itself to the denunciations of God's wrath — "' the nations that forget
God shall be turned into hell " — We, therefore, pray you to take
measures for the amendment of the Constitution, so that it may contain,

1. An express acknowledgment of the being and authority of God.

2. An acknowledgment of submission to the auth&rity of Christ.

3. That it should recognize the paramount obligation of God's law,
contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.

4. That it may be rendered, in all its principles and provisions,
clearly and unmistakably adverse to the existence of any form of
slavery within the national limits.

The Synod of 1861, met in the city of New York.
The dark political horizon indicated a speedy clash of
.arms, and the war of the rebellion broke out. The
position and duty of the Church in the present crisis
were presented in the following report :

That in view of the calamities brought upon this land by the
iniquitous war now raging, in the interest of slavery, against the United
States, Synod feels called upon to present, for the information of all
whom it may concern, a brief outline of our position as a Church ; and

1. We heartily acknowledge the numerous excellencies of the civil
institutions of this land ; we appreciate its code of laws, as, in
general, wholesome and just ; we prize the privileges and protection
we here enjoy in our personal pursuits and rights, and take a
•deep interest in this land of our birth or adoption, endeared to us
as the early refuge of the friends of civil and religious liberty, as
the scene of a noble conflict for national freedom and independence,
as our home and that of our children.

2. Notwithstanding all this, we are constrained, in conscience, to
maintain, as we and our fathers have heretofore done, a state of
dissent from the Constitution of the United States, inasmuch as there

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 27

■is in this instrument no acknowledgment of the name of God, Most
High and Eternal ; no recognition of the supremacy of His law con-
tained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments ; no pro-
fession of subjection to the Mediatorial authority of the Son of
God, who is " King of kings and Lord of lords : " while on the other
hand, this Constitution contains certain "compromises" in the interest
of slavery and slaveholders. On these grounds we are compelled to
withhold from said Constitution our oath in its support, and thus to
deny ourselves certain privileges which we would gladly enjoy could
we do so with good conscience toward God. But

3. That our position may be fully and definitely understood, we
declare,

(i.) That we disclaim allegiance to the government of any foreign
-nation.

(2.) That we "consider ourselves under obligations to live peace-
ably with all men, to advanca the good of society, and to conform
to its order in everything consistent with righteousness."

(3.) That we disown all sympathy, even the least, with the traitors
styling themselves "the Confederate States," now in arms against
these United States.

(4.) That we will, as true patriots, defend this, our common
.country, against these and all like enemies.

The Synod re-affirmed its position on the jury question,
and exhorted the members to firmness and confidence
in this respect.

The Synod of 1862, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. The Domestic Mission Board established
Mission Schools among the freedmen in several localities
in the South, and several missionaries were sent out to
Port Royal, South Carolina, and other vicinities where
the way was open for mission work. The Theological
Seminary received the attention of Synod, and the
professors reported a good attendance of students and
an addition to the library.

The Synod of 1863, met in Sharon, Iowa. The

128 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Domestic Mission Board reported the establishment of
mission schools in South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi
and Arkansas, and missionaries and teachers had been
sent to these respective fields. The Foreign Mission
and Theological Seminary were in a flourishing con-
dition and received the generous contributions of the
Church. The Synod appointed a Committee to go
to Washington and confer with the President of the
United States, and heads of departments, in reference
to the duty of the nation to submit to King Jesus.
Presbyteries were directed to minister to the sick and
wounded soldiers in the military hospitals within their
bounds. Some objection being brought against the
army oath, a Committee framed the following oath
and sought the proper authorities for the sanction of
the same, when members of the Church entered the
army: " I do swear by the living God, that I wnll be
faithful to the United States, and will aid and defend
them against the armies of the Confederate States,
yielding all due obedience to military orders." This
oath neither encouraged members unduly to enter the
conflict, nor pledged them to support an immoral Con-
stitution. Covenanters regarded the government justi-
fiable in the war so far as it was waged to maintain
the integrity of the country and to overthrow the ini-^
quitous system of human slavery. Taking this position
the members of the Church generously supported the
cause of the Union with their substance and their
lives. There was not a rebel within the pale of this
Church. They believed that the Southren Confederacy
was a conspiracy against God and humanity, and that

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 29

Tier members were doing God's service when they
•enlisted to break it up. While recognizing this fact
they still claimed that the secession from a human
government was not to be compared to rebellion
against the divine government, and they would em-
brace every opportunity to teach the nation this truth
and insist upon the recognition of the same. There
was no sin or inconsistency in aiding the government
in a lawful and righteous work, and while Covenanters
heroicly defended their homes and their country by
suppressing their enemies, they in no sense became
responsible for the immoralities of the government
although some wicked men were the brave leaders in
the conflict.

In February, 1863, a number of ministers and
members of several Christian denominations met in
Xenia, Ohio, for the purpose of discussing the subject
of amending the National Constitution. At a subse-
quent meeting in the city of Allegheny, Pennsylvania*
circulars were addressed to the supreme judicatories of
several Christian denominations to appoint delegates to
a convention in July, 1863, but to these invitations no
bodies responded but the two Synods of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church. This was the origin of the present
National Reform Association, and the Reformed Presby-
terian Church has ever since been the chief supporter of
the movement. Mr. John Alexander of Philadelphia, is,
in many respects, the father of the Association, and has
been the chief supporter of it in the way of personal
contributions. Not a single religious paper in the
country had a word of cheer to offer, and when the

130 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Christian Statesman was founded for the propogation of
the principles of the Association, some sneered at the
project and others passed it by in silence. What a
wonderful change in sentiment in twenty-five years !
The most able ministers and jurists of the country are
now wheeled into line with its glorious principles, and
soon the cause which it advocates will finally triumph.
The good which this Association has done in the last
quarter of a century is incalculable, and at the present
time lecturers are in the field from different denomina-
tions.

The Synod of 1864, met in the city of Philadelphia.
Among the first resolutions was this :

Resolved, That this Synod recommend to the members of the Church
entire abstinence from the use of tobacco.

The Committee previously appointed to wait upon'
the President of the United States, made the following
report :

The Committee appointed to confer with the President and heads of
Departments touching the duty of the nation to recognize God and the
claims of His Word, have attended to the duty imposed upon them.
About the beginning of February we visited Washington, and had a
pleasant and satisfactory interview with the President. We proffered
and read in his hearing an address expressing the well-known views of
our Church in regard to the duty of nations, and of the duty of this
nation in particular, in the present exigency. A copy of the address is
herewith submitted. The Committee also prepared, and caused to be
laid before the National Congress, a memorial craving such changes in
and amendments to the Constitution of the United States as are set
forth in the address.

The Committee took no steps toward securing an acceptance by the
proper Department of the form of oath prepared by Synod. In view of
the circumstances of the case, it was deemed unnecessary to do so.
The Committee understand that the prescribed form of oath was^

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 131-

specially intended to meet the case of those who might be drafted under
the new conscription law of the United States. It was ascertained that
under this law no oath of any kind was required of the soldier, and
also that in the case of those who had felt it to be their duty to offer
their services to the nation in special emergencies, they had been ac-
cepted without any oath. Under these circumstances no end was to be
gained by pursuing the matter any further.

The Synod of 1865, met in Utica, Ohio. Resolu-
tions on slavery, and Committees to present the same
to the President, were passed. Geneva Hall was revived
for the education of colored persons as well as all
others. The Mission Boards reported great encourage-
ment and large results from the efforts put forth at
home and abroad. The Theological Seminary was not
as fully attended as usual owing to the disturbed state of
the country. As the rebellion was now put down the
Synod adopted the following resolutions :

Resolved, ist. That this Synod congratulate the country upon the
utter overthrow of the slaveholders' rebellion, which has for the past
four years filled the land with mourning and aimed at the destruction
of the nation.

Resolved, 2d. That we recognize in the death of President Lincoln
by the hand of an assassin, a severe chastisement from Almighty
God, and the legitimate fruits of that system of wrong and blood-
shed which inspired and animated the Southern conspiracy.

Resolved, 3d. That inasmuch as it is a principle of the divine
government that " he that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth
the just, even they both are an abomination to the Lord ; " it is
our calm and deliberate judgment, that it is the duty of the govern-
ment, to inflict the penalty of death upon the leaders of the late
rebellion.

Resolved, 4th. That we recognize in the late war a signal mani-
festation of the divine wrath against the sins of the nation, especially
the rejection of the authority of Messiah and oppression of man.

Resolved, 5th. That we heartily rejoice in every step which has
been taken for the destruction of slavery, and urge the carrying for-

132 HISTORY <3F THE REFORMED

ward of the work, until every man in the nation, without regard to
color, stands upon a perfect equality before the laws.

Resolved, 6th. That we again call upon the nation to abandon its
rebellion against God, acknowledge His name, submit to His authority,
and recognize the mediatorial claims of His Son.

The Synod of 1866, met in the city of Rochester,
New York. Rev. R. J. Dodds. missionary from Syria,
was present and addressed the court and presided over
the deliberations. The question of voting for proper
.amendments to State Constitutions came up, and
received the following answer :

That while there may be instances in which it would not be wrong
to do so, yet as there are other ways by which countenance and approba-
tion may be given to what is proper, as by petition, and by public and
private expression, Synod does not recommend such a course.

Strong resolutions were passed against the use or
sale of intoxicants, and Synod gave its promise to aid
the cause of temperance in every way. Cheering reports
were received from the Southern and Foreign Missions,
and the work of evangelization and reformation was
liopefully progressing in all the Church's departments.

The Synod of 1867, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. A plan for the endowment of the
Theological Seminary was set before the Church. A
weekly paper was established for the dissemination of
the principles of the National Reform Association.
Rev. Samuel O. Wylie was chosen professor of Theology
to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Rev.
Dr. James M. Willson. To an inquiry whether a mem-
ber of the Church living in Canada may hold office
in a case where no oath is required, the following
.answer was given :

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 33

The principle involved in this question is not local but general in its
application. The position of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in
regard to accepting office, the committee understand to be, not that it is
sinful in itself and wrong in all cases, but that it may become sinful
either by the imposition of an immoral oath or by involving an obliga-
tion to perform a sinful service. When either of these conditions exists,
-the law and practice of the church forbid the holding of office.

Rev. Joseph McCracken was chosen President of
Geneva Hall and Seminary, at Northwood, Ohio. The
education of colored persons at this institution promised
to be a success, and the Church was deeply interested
in this work of elevating the condition of the sable
race.

The Synod of 1868, met at Northwood, Ohio. The
Theological Seminary and Geneva Hall received special
attention. Rev. Samuel O. Wylie having declined the
professorate in the former institution, the Rev. J. R.
W. Sloane was chosen to the position. Arrangements
Avere made for Covenanting in the near future. Synod
re-affirmed its position on the jury question and in-
temperance, viz : that members are prohibited from
sitting on juries, and that they are to cease touching
intoxicants in any way. The law of the Church was
declared to be positively prohibitory in these respects.
Rev. Joseph McCracken having resigned the Presidency
of Geneva Hall, Mr. S. J. Crowe, student of theology,
had been appointed by the Board as Principal, and
conducted the school several years in a most efficient
Tnanner.

The following deliverance of Synod upon the voting
for amendments was given :

The Reformed Presbyterian Church has deliberately taken the
position of dissent from the civil institutions of the United States, not

134 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

on the ground that participation in all the functions and operations
of government is sinful in itself, but on account of the immoral char-
acter of the Constitutions and laws under which the citizen must act.
Hence the Church has applied this principle by prohibiting her
members from holding office and voting at civil elections.

The inquiry now demanding an answer is, Does voting for an
amendment of State Constitutions involve, as in the other cases already
determined by the Church, any thing sinful or inconsistent with the
principle and practice of the Church ? Synod answers unequivocally,
that it does. Inasmuch as voting for this object or any other, in-
volves incorporation with the national society and imperils our dissent
from it. Is. 8:12, "Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom
this people shall say, A confederacy." It exposes the members of the
Church to temptation, i Cor. 8:12, "But when ye sin so against the
brethren and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ." It
encourages other Christians to continue their sinful connection with
an ungodly nation, and renders nugatory the discipline of the Church.
On these, and other grounds. Synod is resolved to abide by the dis-
tinctive principles of the Church, and to apply the law of her exalted
Head. "Abstain from all appearance of evil." i Thess. 5:22. " Lo
the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the
nations." Numb. 23:9. And ere long "the kingdom and dominion and
the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be
given to the people of the saints of the Most High." Dan. 7:27.

To the two inquiries : ist. In a State where there is no objection
to the school law, except that it requires of all officers an oath of
allegiance to the Constitution of the United States, as well as an
oath to discharge the duties of their office, can members of the
Church hold the office of school director, if they are only required to
take an oath to discharge the duties of the office, provided they let
it be known that they will not take the oath of allegiance prescribed
by law ? 2d. Can members of the Church vote for an individual for
school director who will take the oath of office with the above limita-
tions and explanations ? In accordance with the principles stated in
the foregoing case, Synod answers, No.

The Synod of 1869, met in the city of Newburgh,
New York. A most stirring and hopeful report was
given of the cause of National Reform. The educa-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 135

tional and Missionary Departments of the work of the
Church were in a most healthy condition, and several
new organizations of congregations and settlements of
ministers were reported. The following resolutions on
Secrecy were unanimously adopted :

Resolved, That this Synod views with deep concern the reviving
growth and influence of the Secret Orders in the United States.

Resolved, That we condemn these associations, because their effect
is to establish spurious and artificial social relations among men and
a new code of duties founded upon these relations ; because the
secrecy they practice and enjoin is inconsistent with the candor be-
coming the Christian character ; and because they virtually assume to
establish a religion distinct from the religion of Jesus, and therefore
false. On these grounds we renew our traditional testimony that those
who enter these associations are unworthy of ecclesiastical fellowship.

Resolved, That we welcome with great satisfaction the rise of an
earnest and wide-spread opposition to the Secret Orders, and we trust
it shall increase and prevail till society be delivered from the dangers
and purified from the corruptions which they occasion.

The Synod of 1870, met in the city of New York.
The Church was encouraged to organize Sabbath
Schools in all the congregations, but not in such a
manner as to supplant parental training or home in-
struction. The Reformed Presbyterian Church has
always excluded members of oath-bound secret societies
from her Communion, the reasons for which action
are embodied in the following timely report on the
subject :

Whereas, Secret Orders are institutions avowedly setting before
themselves ends of no mere temporary character, but permanent as
those of the Church and State ; and

Whereas, Their boasted efforts of friendship and beneficence are
designed not for the benefit of all men, nor for the aid of society and
the Church in their work, but for the advancement of the orders
themselves as rivals of the Church and State ; and

136 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Whereas, The social relations formed by membership in these
orders must therefore be artificial and false, and the performance of
the duties imposed by their obligations an injustice to all outside, in-
cluding the families of members ; and

Whereas, Secrecy, which is an essential feature of these orders,
however justifiable in exceptional circumstances, is in all ordinary cases
needless, opposed to candor, unworthy of a benevolent enterprise, and
unscriptural ; and

Whereas, These orders become to many of the members a church
and their ritual and services virtually a religion, and thus not only tend,
as proved by fact, to keep men from uniting with the Church, but also
induce professing Christians to abandon her ; and

Whereas, In many of these orders the members are bound together
by oaths, horrible in themselves, and administered by no civil or eccle-
siastical authority, and may thus become ready instruments in the hands
of designing leaders for the overthrow of our civil and religious liberties ;
therefore,

Resokh'd, i. That we emphatically condemn all these orders as wrong
in principle and necessarily injurious in their operation.

2. That it is as much the duty of the Church to prohibit the connec-
tion of her members with these orders as to forbid their participation
in a system of rebellion or oppression.

3. That in view of the advocacy of Secret Orders by influential
papers, and even by respected Christian men and ministers, we pledge
ourselves to labor for the thorough agitation of the subject, believ-
ing that a clearer understanding of their character and influences will
lead to the withdrawal of their most effective support.

There was a general and earnest desire upon the
part of the Church to now go forward with the act
of Covenanting, and definite arrangements were made
to enter upon this important work at the next
meeting.

The Synod of 1871, met in the city of Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania. It is the most notable meeting because
during its sessions the Synod entered into the solemn
act of Covenanting. The "bond" of the Covenant

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. I 37

and the "Confession of Sins" had been overtured by
the Church. This important event in the history of
the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America took
place in the Pittsburgh Church, May 27, 1871, after a
sermon on "Covenanting" by Rev. Andrew Stevenson^
D. D. Rev. James M. Beattie then read the Covenant,.
Rev. J. R. W. Sloane, D. D., addressed the Synod on
"The Spirit in which we should Covenant," and Rev,
Thomas Sproull, D. D., offered prayer. After a few
moments of silent prayer, the Covenant-oath was
taken by the members of Synod and others who
joined them. The Covenant was then again read by
Rev. Thomas Sproull, D. D., and at the close of each
section all responded "Amen." At the close of the
last section all repeated in concert Exodus 24 : 7,
"All that the Lord hath said will we .do, and be
obedient." The Covenant was then subscribed by
seventy-four ministers, seventy elders, and by five
licentiates, four students of theology, and nineteen
elders not members of the Synod at that session.
After the bond was signed, the Rev. William Milroy
delivered an address on "Covenant-keeping," and the
service closed by singing Psalm 72: 17-19.

As the proceedings of this memorable occasion have
been preserved to the Church in the "Memorial
Volume," it is thought proper to insert nothing in this
volume but the Covenant itself, in order that this
sacred bond may meet the eye of the casual reader.

COVENANT.

"We, Ministers. Elders, Deacons, and Members of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church in North America,

138 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

with our hands lifted up, do jointly and severally swear
by the Great and Dreadful Name of the LORD OUR
God:

I. "That coming into the presence of the Lord God
with a deep conviction of His awful majesty and
glory, of His omniscience, His purity. His justice and
His grace ; of our guilt and total depravity by nature,
and our utter inability to save ourselves from deserved
condemnation to everlasting punishment ; with renuncia-
tion of all dependence on our own righteousness as
the ground of pardon and acceptance with God,
we receive for ourselves and for our children the Lord
Jesus Christ as He is offered in the Gospel, to be
our Saviour — the Holy Spirit to be our Enlightener,
Sanctifier and Guide — and God, the Father, to be our
everlasting portion ; we approve and accept of the
Covenant of Grace as all our salvation and desire,
and take the moral law as dispensed by the Mediator,
Christ, to be the rule of our life, and to be obeyed
by us in all its precepts and prohibitions. Aiming
to live for the glory of God as our chief end,
we will, in reliance upon God's grace, and feeling
our inability to perform any spiritual duty in our own
strength, diligently attend to searching the Scriptures,
religious conversation, the duties of the closet, the
household, the fellowship meeting and the sanctuary,
and will seek in them to worship God in spirit and
in truth. We do solemnly promise to depart from all
iniquity, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly in
this present world, commending and encouraging, by
our example, temperance, charity and godliness.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 39

2. "That after careful examination, having embraced
the system of faith, order and worship revealed in the
Holy Scriptures, and summarized as to doctrine in the
Westminster Confession and Catechisms, and Reformed
Presbyterian Testimony, and, as to order and worship,
justly set forth in substance and outline in the West-
minster Form of Church Government and Directory
for Worship, we do publicly profess and own this as
the true Christian faith and religion, and the system
of order and worship appointed by Christ for His own
house, and, by the grace of God, we will sincerely
and constantly endeavor to understand it more fully,
to hold and observe it in its integrity, and to transmit
the knowledge of the same to posterity. We solemnly
reject whatever is known by us to be contrary to
the Word of God, our recognized and approved manuals
of faith and order, and the great principles of the
Protestant Reformation. Particularly, we abjure and
■condemn Infidelity, under all its various aspects ;
Atheism, or the denial of the divine existence ; Pan-
theism, with its denial of the divine personality ;
Naturalism, with its denial of the divine Providential
Government ; Spiritualism, with its denial of the Bible
redemption ; Indifferentism, with its denial of man's
responsibility ; Formalism, with its denial of the power
of godliness. W^e abjure and condemn Popery, with
its arrogant assumption of supremacy and infallibility ;
its corrupt and heretical teachings ; its dogma of the
Immaculate Conception ; its hostility to civil and
religious liberty, to the progress of society in civiliza-
tion and intelligence, and especially its denial, in

I40 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

common with Infidelity, of the right and duty of the
State to educate in morality and religion by the use of
the Bible in schools enjoying its patronage and support.
Believing Presbyterianism to be the only divinely
instituted form of government in the Christian Church,,
we disown and reject all other forms of ecclesiastical
polity, as without authority of Scripture, and as
damaging to purity, peace and unity in the household
of faith. We reject all systems of false religion and
will-worship, and with these all forms of secret oath-
bound societies and orders, as ensnaring in their nature,
pernicious in their tendency, and perilous to the liberties
of both Church and State ; and pledge ourselves to-
pray and labor according to our power, that whatever
is contrary to godliness may be removed, and the
Church beautified with universal conformity to the law
and will of her Divine Head and Lord.

3. " Persuaded that God is the source of all legitimate
power ; that he has instituted civil government for His
own glory and the good of man ; that he has ap-
pointed His Son, the Mediator, to headship over the
nations ; and that the Bible is the supreme law and
rule in national as in all other things, we will maintain
the responsibility of nations to God, the rightful
dominion of Jesus Christ over the commonwealth, and
the obligation of nations to legislate in conformity
with the written Word. We take • ourselves sacredly
bound to regulate all our civil relations, attachments,,
professions and deportment, by our allegiance and loyalty
to the Lord, our King, Lawgiver and Judge ; and by
this, our oath, we are pledged to promote the interests

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. I4I

of public order and justice, to support cheerfully what-
ever is for the good of the commonwealth in which we
dwell, and to pursue this object in all things not for-
bidden by the law of God, or inconsistent with public
dissent from an unscriptural and immoral civil power.
We will pray and labor for the peace and welfare of
our country, and for its reformation by a constitutional
recognition of God as the source of all power, of Jesus-
Christ as the Ruler of Nations, of the Holy Scriptures-
as the supreme rule, and of the true Christian religion ;.
knd we will continue to refuse to incorporate by any
act, with the political body, until this blessed reforma-
tion has been secured.

4. "That, believing the Church to be 07ie, and that
all the saints have communion with God and with one
another in the same Covenant ; believing, moreover,
that schism and sectarianism are sinful in themselves^
and inimical to true religion, and trusting that divisions'
shall cease, and the people of God become one Catholic
Church over all the earth, we will pray and labor for
the visible oneness of the Church of God in our own
land and throughout the world, on the basis of truth
and Scriptural order. Considering it a principal duty of
our profession to cultivate a holy brotherhood, we will
strive to maintain Christian friendship with pious* meii
of every name, and to feel and act as one with all
in every land who pursue this grand end. And, as a
means of securing this great result, we will, by dis-
semination and application of the principles of truth
herein professed and by cultivating and exercising
Christian charity, labor to remove stumbling blocks,.

142 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and to gather into one the scattered and divided friends
of truth and righteousness.

5. "Rejoicing that the enthroned Mediator is not
only King in Zion. but King over all the earth, and
recognizing the obligation of His command to go into
all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,
and to teach all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost,
and resting with faith in the promise of His perpetual
presence as the pledge of success, we hereby dedicate
■ourselves to the great work of making known God's
light and salvation among the nations, and to this
end 'will labor that the Church may be provided with
an earnest, self-denying and able ministry. Profoundly
conscious of past remissness and neglect, we will hence-
forth, by our prayers, pecuniary contributions and per-
sonal exertions, seek the revival of pure and undefiled
religion, the conversion of Jews and Gentiles to Christ,
that all men may be blessed in Him, and that all
nations may call Him blessed.

6. "Committing ourselves with all our interests to
the keeping of Him in whom we have believed : in
faithfulness to our own vows, and to the Covenants
of our fathers, and to our children whom we desire
to fead in the right ways of the Lord ; and in love
to all mankind, especially the household of faith in
•obedience to the commandment of the everlasting
God to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered
to the saints, we will bear true testimony in word and
in deed for every known part of divine truth, and
for all the ordinances appointed by Christ in his king-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 43

dom ; and we will tenderly and charitably, but plainly
and decidedly, oppose and discountenance all and
every known error, immorality, neglect or perversion
of divine institutions. Taking as our example the
faithful in all ages, and, most of all, the blessed
Master himself, and with our eye fixed upon the great
cloud of witnesses who have sealed with their blood
the testimony which they held, we will strive to hold
fast the profession of our faith without wavering, in
hope of the crown of life which fadeth not away.
Finally, we enter upon this solemn act of cove-
nanting before the Omniscient God, with unfeigned
purpose of paying our vow. All sinister and selfish
ends and motives we solemnly disavow, and protest
that we have no aim but the glory of God, and the
present and everlasting welfare of immortal souls.
And our prayer to God is and shall be, to strengthen
us by His Holy Spirit to keep this our promise, vow
and oath, and to bless our humble attempt to glorify
His name and honor, His truth and cause with such
success as will bring salvation to our own souls, the
wider spread and triumph of truth and holiness, and
the enlargement and establishment of the kingdom of
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, to whom, with the
Father and the Spirit, one God be glory in the Church
throughout all ages, world without end. Amen."

With a very few exceptions, all the members of
the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America entered
into and subscribed this same Covenant in the respective
congregations. The Rev. Samuel R. Galbraith was

144 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

chosen missionary to Syria, to fill the vacancy caused
by the death of the Rev. Robert J. Dodds. Rev.
David McAllister was appointed by Synod to give his
whole time to the interests of National Reform.

The Synod of 1872, met in York, New York. An
offer was made by Mr. James Kelly of Wilkinsburgh,.
Pennsylvania, and also by friends in Newburgh, New
York, for the location of the Theological Seminary.
The Pittsburgh Presbytery donated the buildings of
Westminster College to the Seminary Board. Wilkins-
burgh was chosen as the seat of the new Theological
Seminary. Elaborate reports on Missions, Education,.
National Reform, and other vital departments of the
Church's work were submitted. The Committee on
the " Homestead Oath " reported :

That they have examined the Homestead laws of the United States,
and find that every applicant must swear that he is a citizen, or that
he has filed his declaration of intention to become such, as required
by the naturalization laws of the United States. (See Brightley's.
Digest of the Laws of the U. S., p. 288, sec. 41.) At the time the
patent is made out, he niust swear that he has borne true allegiance
to the government of the United States. (Idem., page 288, sec. 42.)

There never has been a question in the Church as to the first
oath. It has always been deemed wrong. As to the second, which
both natives and foreigners must take, a majority of the Com-
mittee think it inconsistent with our refusal to incorporate, by any
act, with the government of the United States.

The Committee recommended that Synod take steps to obtain such
a modification of these oaths as may be consistent with our dissent.

The Rev. H. H. George was chosen President of
Geneva College, and has since continued to hold that
position.

The Synod of 1873, met in Northwood, Ohio. For
several reasons the location of the Seminary at Wil--

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 145

kinsburgh was not satisfactory to some parts of the
Church, and the Synod adopted the following resolution:

Resolved, That a Committee of seven persons be appointed to locate
and erect the Theological Seminary Building in the city of Allegheny,
and that the place and style of building and appurtenances be left
to the judgment of the Committee ; and that the limit of expense be
thirty thousand dollars ($30,000).

The Synod of 1874, met in the city of Philadelphia.
The Committee appointed to report on the " Patrons
•of Husbandry" or "Grangers," after ascertaining facts,
report the following :

I. That this order was organized by Freemasons and Oddfellows ;
is modelled after their forms in its rites, ceremonies and officers ; is
largely under their control, and as a matter of fact furnishes recruits
for these detestable orders.

2. That it is in itself a secret and substantially oath-bound society,
the candidate for admission being required to pledge his sacred word
and honor, in the presence of God, to keep secrets, obey laws and
assume responsibilities wholly unknown to him, and utterly incompatible
with Christian integrity and simplicity.

3. That the order in its constitution assumes the false and impossi-
ble position of neutrality both with respect to religion and politics,
and as a consequence of this its religious services are conducted
indiscriminately in a Christian or Anti-Christian and pa^gan manner ;
and instead of being neutral in politics, it is practically a political
party.

We therefore emphatically and unequivocally condemn this and all
•other secret orders as ensnaring, deceptive and sinful in themselves,
as prejudicial to the best interests of society, and as a lawless and
inefficient way of obtaining redress of grievances. We also recom-
mend that Synod enjoin it upon all sessions not to fellowship mem-
bers of this or any secret order, and to warn all under their care
to beware of the ensnaring influences of such organizations. "Have
no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather
reprove them."

The Synod, as the representative of the Church,
again pledged itself to the hearty support of the

146 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

principles incorporated b}- the National Reform Associa-
tion, and has unceasingly carried forward the pledge
embodied in the following resolutions :

Resoh'ed, That this Synod, and the whole Church, in whose interests
it is met, regard with the liveliest interest all efforts to reform our
nation, and to bring it, in its constitution, and administration, and
into conformity with the revealed will and written Word of God.

Resolved, That a distinct constitutional recognition of Jesus Christ,
the Mediator between God and man, as the legislative head and ruler
of nations is the indispensable duty of this nation, and that any pro-
posed form of amendment to the national constitution, or States con-
stitution, in which such recognition is omitted, is and will be held
by this Church to be fundamentally defective.

Resolved, That we will pray and labor for the reformation of our
nation, nor cease our efiforts until we see it a Christian state, adminis-
tering its authority in subserviency to the kingdom of Christ, in sup-
pressing blasphemy, idolatry, licentiousness, and every other form of
public hindrance to its progress, and in giving positive countenance,
encouragement, and support to the Christian Church throughout the
commonwealth as the great restorer and conservator of the true relig-
ion, which, as a leaf of the tree of life, restores and heals the nations.

The Synod of 1875, "^^t in Coultersville, Illinois.
Rev. David B. Willson was elected to a professorate
in the Theological Seminary. All the reports from
the different agencies of the Church were full and
satisfactory, and, with the exception of direction in the
settlement of a few local cases of discipline, the
proceedings of this Synod were routine.

The Synod of 1876, met in the city of Allegheny,.
Pennsylvania. Rev. Joseph Beattie, of Syria, was pres-
ent, and presided over the sessions of Synod.

Strong and definite resolutions bearing upon the
different reforms of the day were passed at the meeting,
and they were of such a character as to conclusively

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 4/

show that this Church is composed of thorough
reformers.

The Synod of 1877, met in the city of Allegheny,.
Pennsylvania. The following report explains itself :

The Committee appoiated to confer with a similar Committee ap-
pointed by the General Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church,
reports that, after several meetings of the joint Committee, it was
agreed to report to the respective Synods, that while we recognize with
thankfulness the identity in faith, and practice and testimony in many
important respects of these closely related branches of the Church of
Christ, we are constrained to admit that the obstacles in the way of
organic reunion appear, for the present, to be insuperable.

The special Committee, to which were referred peti-
tions relating to inviting clergymen of other denomina-
tions into our pulpits, report :

1. That, while desiring to cultivate and cherish the most friendly
and fraternal relations with our brethren of other evangelical denomina-
tions, it has never been the custom of the Church to invite them to
minister to our people in the preaching of the Word.

2. That we see no good reason, in the present condition of the
visible Church of Christ, for departing from existing usage.

The Synod of 1878, met at Linton, Iowa. With
reference to the conference on union with the New
School body, the Committee made the following report :

After a frank, earnest and friendly conference, it was agreed that
there was not, at present, any special encouragement to take steps in
the direction of attempting to heal the breach between these two
branches of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, and while it was
agreed that we should foster in all proper ways friendly, fraternal
feelings, that it was not advisable to continue the conference further.

Synod thought it proper for women to speak and
lead in prayer in social praying societies. The Fourth
Term of Communion was revised, and is as printed.

Synod advised the Missionary among the Chinese to
baptize such persons as give evidence of " intelligent

148 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

.and unfeigned faith and repentance." Synod also
regarded " the language of the Testimony on the duties
•of the Christian magistrate as the exhibition of the
doctrines we hold upon this subject, and as properly
interpreting the Confession of Faith."

The Synod of 1879, met in the city of New York.
Rev. David Metheny, M. D., Missionary to Syria, was
present, and was chosen to preside over the sessions.
Rev. A. M, Stavely, of New Brunswick, was also present,
.and addressed the meeting.

The following resolutions on tobacco were unani-
mously adopted by Synod :

Inasmuch as tobacco is extensively used throughout society, and in
its use is a positive evil, which manifests itself — i. As an injury to
physical health ; 2. As an offence to good manners ; 3. As an unneces-
sary expenditure of money ; 4. As it is associated with much vice ;
5. As it exerts a demoralizing influence upon the youth ; 6. As it is
inconsistent with moral and spiritual purity. Therefore,

Resolved, i. That this Synod condemn all indulgence in the use of
tobacco.

Resolved, 2. That we urge our people to abstain from it in every
form except as prescribed by competent medical authority, and use all
lawful and wise means to eradicate this evil from society.

Resolved, 3. That Presbyteries be hereby advised to license no one
to preach the gospel who indulges in the use of tobacco ; and sessions
be advised not to ordain any officers in the Church who practice
this habit for mere carnal gratification.

Resglved, 4. That this Synod condemn the cultivation, manufacture,
and sale of tobacco.

With its earnest desire, and with the hearty con-
<:urrence of the Irish Synod, the Presbytery of New
Brunswick and Nova Scotia was received under the
care of this Synod. The change of the location of
Geneva College having been agitated for some time,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 49

the Synod now chose to remove the institution from
Northwood, Ohio, to Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, on the
condition that ten acres of ground and twenty thousand
dollars were given for the erection of buildings. This
offer was made by the Economite Society and
accepted by Synod. The College first opened in
Beaver Falls in September, 1880, and the building
erected for the purpose was occupied the following year.
The 'Synod re-affirmed the law of the Church with
reference to marriage with a deceased wife's sister,
that it is prohibitory. In a concrete case of a member
of the Church being summoned to sit upon a jury in
Pittsburgh, and the Judge refusing to excuse him, a
Committee of Synod was appointed to wait upon the
Judge, who decided that he would not excuse the
member, but was willing to accept, instead of the
usual juror's oath, such an oath as would be approved
by the Reformed Presbyterian Church,

The Synod of 1880, met in the city of Philadelphia.
General Rules for the organization and government of
Geneva College were submitted. The following report
explains the manner in which affairs were settled by
the removal of the College to Beaver Falls :

That the notes given to the endowment by persons in the vicinity
of Northwood, on the condition that the College remain in that place,
be returned to those who make this request.

That the Board of Education, as connected with the College in
Northwood, Ohio, be continued in existence until all business matters
relating to the transfer of the College to Beaver Falls shall be fully
accomplished, and that the Executive Committee of the Board be
authorized to make a quit claim deed to a Committee to be appointed
by members of the Church at Northwood, of all the buildings there

ISO HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

belonging to Synod, on condition that the Northwood Committee meet
all the expenses afterwards accruing.

That the movable property of the College, such as the library,
apparatus, &c., be removed to the College building at Beaver Falls.

The Synod of 1881, met in the city of Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania. The following preamble and resolutions
were adopted :

Whereas, It is important for the interests of the Church to place
before our people and others a statement and vindication of the prin-
ciples professed by us, and to justify the practice grounded upoQ these
principles, and particularly in connection with questions made of im-
mediate and pressing urgency from the circumstances of the times ;
therefore.

Resolved, i. That Synod take measures for the issuing of a series of
tracts, of not more than 4 pages, 12 mo., for distribution among our
people, and for general circulation, so far as it can be accomplished.

2. That D. S. Faris be appointed to write on the duty of our
members in regard to the exercise of the Elective Franchises, Dr.
Sloane on Psalmody, James Kennedy on Instrumental Music, Professor
Willson on Dancing, J. Lynd on Temperance, D. M'Allister on the Jury
Question, and Dr. Sproull on the Testimony of the Church, in regard
to Christian people who are in political fellowship with nations, which
disown the Kingship of the Lord Jesus ; and that these papers be
published at once in the magazines of the Church.

On the question of voting for temperance amend-
ments, the Committee say :

On this paper we report that as the Synod by its action of 1866 and
1867 refused to authorize such voting on the part of the members of
the Church, and as it not only appears to many inconsistent with our
position on the jury question, and in some measure an incorporating
with government, but also inconsistent with the position, solemnly taken
in our act of Covenanting of 1871, that therefore Synod should distinctly
declare that it disapproves of and discourages such voting on the part
of our members as if not positively a breach of their testimony, at
least in many respects dangerous and ensnaring.

Synod thought that members acceding to our Com-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. I5I

munion in Syria from the Greek Roman Catholic Church
should be baptized. Not only in this but in all similar
cases baptism is to be administered. Rev. W. J.
Coleman was chosen to labor in the interests of the
National Reform Association as the representative of
this Church.

The Synod of 1882, met in New Concord, Ohio.
From the following resolutions it will be seen that this
is a temperance Church :

1. Resolved, That we unite in sincere thanksgiving to God for the
firm hold the cause of Temperance has taken in the public conscience,
for the able instrumentalities that are raised up in its advocacy, and for
its marked progress in the Church and throughout the Nation.

2. Resolved, That we hereby lift up an uncompromising testimony
against the use, manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors, including
beer, ale, wine and hard cider, as a beverage ; against the renting of
property for the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors ; against the
selling the fruits of the earth for the purpose of being manufactured
into intoxicating drinks ; and against giving countenance in any way to
the nefarious traffic or use.

3. Resolved, That the ministers, officers and members of the Church
be enjoined to take a public stand in the present Temperance move-
ment, and openly wage, in all legitimate ways, an unceasing warfare
against the atrocious liquor business and the pernicious evils of
intemperance.

4. Resolved, That sessions see to it that members of the Church act
consistently with her public position on the Temperance question, and
that the discipline of the Church be rigidly applied in all cases
where the law of the Church in this regard is violated.

5. Resolved, That the Sabbath Schools make Temperance a part of
their instruction ; and that teachers and scholars be urged to pledge
themselves to total abstinence from intoxicating liquors, and to earnest
work in the Temperance cause.

6. Resolved, That Synod reiterate its former recommendation against
the use of intoxicating wine in the Lord's supper.

7. Retolved, That we rejoice at the progress of legal Prohibition in

152 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

our country ; and that we put forth every effort, consistent with our
position as a Church, to secure an amendment to the United States
Constitution, and also to the Constitutions of the different States, for-
bidding the importation, manufacture and sale of intoxicating liquors
as a beverage.

8. Resolved, That the time has come when our Church should take
an advanced step in the temperance cause by incorporating in her
written Testimony an article forever prohibiting the manufacture, sale
and use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage.

9. Resolved, That this Synod express its hearty approval of the action
of the legislature of this State in closing the liquor saloons on the
Lord's day.

10. Resolved, That Synod renew, in more emphatic terms, its con-
demnation of the production, manufacture, sale and use of tobacco, as
it is injurious to the best interests of man socially, morally and
spiritually ; and that Presbyteries be enjoined to refuse licensure to
any candidate who is in the habit of indulging in the use thereof.

Synod declared itself opposed to the action of the
government in closing the western gate, while through
the east gate a far more dangerous class of emigrants
is received with no restrictions :

Resolved, That this Synod express its condemnation of the recent
Anti-Chinese bill which has passed both houses of Congress, and been
signed by the President, as a breach of treaty obligations, opposed to
the spirit of the age, a gross violation of the law of God, and as
calculated to arrest the earnest missionary efforts now being put forth
for the Christianization of that numerous people.

Rev. Henry Easson, missionary from Syria, was
present and addressed the court, A suitable notice
was taken of the providential death of President Gar-
field, A Committee was appointed to prepare an edition
of the Book of Psalms with verbal corrections and
suitable music,

A long and able discussion of the true and historic
position of the Church was entered into in reference

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 153

to the question of voting for temperance amendments
in some of the States. The question was "Could
Covenanters, consistent with their position, vote for
amendments to State Constitutions.? The following was
the deliverance of Synod on this subject:

Resolved, i. That this Synod declares anew our position of dissent,
on moral grounds, from the Constitution of the United States, and
rejoices in the evidence which this discussion has afforded of una-
bated and unanimous convictions in support of this position.

2. That it has always been regarded as the privilege and the
duty of our members to unite in all civil action which is not incon-
sistent with this dissent.

3. That in view of the varying conditions under which constitu-
tional amendments are submitted in different States, we leave it with
Presbyteries and sessions to administer the discipline of the Church
in harmony with these principles.

The Synod of 1883, met in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania. It was largely attended and much
important business was transacted. The Commission
visiting the Churches in the Maritime Provinces made
an interesting report. A charter for Geneva College
was submitted.

A memorial from Nova Scotia with reference to the
validity of sacraments, received the following answer:

Whilst we are in full harmony with the Memorialists as to the nature
and Scriptural mode of administering the ordinance of baptism, yet
we cannot acquiesce in their prayer, asking this court to pronounce
baptism by immersion to be in all cases invalid, and that applicants
from the Baptist connection, seeking fellowship with us, should be
required to receive baptism before admission, according to the mode
of administration followed by us, for the following reasons :

I. Because it has never been, either in principle or practice^
recognized as necessary in the Reformed Presbyterian Church, in this
or any other country, that such a condition of admission to our mem-
bership should be required on the part of such applicants.

154 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

2. Because, while we strenuously contend for the Scriptural admin-
istration of religious ordinances, we cannot admit the principle that
mere imperfections in the mode of administration do invalidate them or
destroy their efficacy. The "Westminster divines declare that "The sac-
raments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them,
or in him that doth administer them ; " therefore when the appointed
sign is employed in baptism, and when it is applied as directed, in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, and that in
an avowed symbolical and sacramental sense, and for a symbolical and
sacramental purpose, then there are present substantially all the elements
constituting a real administration of that ordinance.

3. Because, as the validity and efficacy of a sacrament do not depend
on the amount of the material sign employed on the occasion, but upon
the right apprehension, in its use, of its spiritual import and significance
as an appointment of Christ, it is not impossible to realize the spiritual
benefits of baptism even when administered by immersion. The
leading idea in employing water in baptism is that of purifying from
defilement, and as in ordinary life, from which the term is taken, this
is sometimes effected by applying water to the object to be made clean,
and sometimes by putting it into the water, we do not think that the
ends contemplated in baptism cannot be reached, or that the ordinance
is invalidated when the mode of administering is by immersion, any
more than that the Lord's Supper is invalidated when in some Evan-
gelical Churches it is administered in a manner which we cannot
regard as altogether Scriptural.

4. Because we cannot refuse to accept the validity of this ordi-
nance, as administered by Baptists without unchurching the connection,
or in other words refusing to acknowledge them as a part of the
true church of Christ. This we do in relation to Rome by refusing
to accept her baptism and ordination, but we think it would be
utterly unjustifiable to place Baptist Churches in the same category.

The following sentiment with reference to an old
form and custom of the Church is interesting :

1. That the distribution of tokens on a week day evening previous
to 'the administration of the ordinance of the Lord's supper has never
been considered an integral element of the ordinance.

2. That it is in no sense an act of worship, nor is the token a
religious symbol.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 55

3. That it is simply a custom relating to the well ordering of the
■Church that has come down to us from persecuting times, and as such
has a strong hold upon the minds of many in the Church.

4. That it cannot in any way be productive of mischief unless
elevated into a prominence and significance that does not in any sense
attach to it.

5. In view of these considerations we advise all our people to
observe the custom as heretofore until such time as the Church in its
wisdom may deem it proper to dispense with it.

An article on Temperance was inserted in the Testi-
mony.

The Synod of 1884, met in Northwood, Ohio. While
there was a large attendance of delegates, the business
was interesting but of a routine character. The prin-
•cipal question that demanded the especial attention of
this Synod was that of voting for amendments. The
following is the report of this item :

1. Does voting for amendments to State Constitutions involve any-
thing sinful or inconsistent with the principles and practice of the
Church ?

2. Has the deliverance of this Synod in 1868 on the question of
voting for amendments been repealed ?

To the first of these inquiries the following answer is submitted :
That it is a fundamental principle of the Church, in regard to which
we are persuaded there is no diversity either of sentiment or practice
amongst us, that all acts performed under the government, that either
require or imply an oath to the National Constitution or to the Con-
stitution of any of the States, are manifestly acts of incorporation with
the government ; and although the service should be right in itself,
yet it becomes wrong and sinful by reason of the sinful condition
involved.

It should, however, be borne in mind that in guarding with watch-
ful jealousy against the sin of identification with an unscriptural
government, the Church, both in the practice of her members, and in
the deliverances of Synod, has wisely avoided the evil of being led

156 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

aside into any unwarranted extremes, as regards our relation to the
Nation, and its government.

In order that we may take no step of departure from our peculiar
position, either to the right hand or to the left, it requires to be
studied and observed with special care. There are forms of civil action
in which our members have always held it their privilege to engage,
without fear of complicity in the sin of an unholy confederacy.
Among the latest utterances of Synod on this subject are these words : ,
"The general rule for guidance is that participation in acts of civil
administration is not in itself wrong and sinful, but becomes so when
any sinful condition in the way of an immoral oath is involved."
And, "that it has always been regarded as the privilege and the duty
of our members to unite in all civil actioQ which is not inconsistent
with our dissent " from the Constitution of the United States.

Upon an examination of the entire ground occupied by these questions
the following conclusions appear safe and just :

All civil action that involves an immoral oath is sinful and wrong.
There are certain acts that do not involve an immoral oath, that are
not acts of incorporation with the government, and that our members
have alw3ys claimed the right to perform.

The simple act of voting for such an amendment to the State Con-
stitution as will secure some important principle of moral right and
reform such as the prohibitory amendments recently submitted to the
people of Kansas, Iowa and Ohio, belongs to the class of acts con-
sistent with the principles and position of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church.

Act of 1868. — To the second inquiry the following answer is respect-
fully returned :

That we should recall the peculiar circumstances under which the
deliverance of 1868 was given.

It is a matter of history that the report was taken up at the last
hour, immediately before the final adjournment of the court. There
was almost no opportunity for the examination and discussion of its
merits. It was adopted amid much confusion and at a time when the
attention of only a fraction of the court could be secured. Such ill
considered action thus hastily taken must be wanting in force of
authority, and cannot be expected to command the hearty respect and
united submission of the Church.

Again, in so far as this deliverance prohibits all civil action, not

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 157^

only when the service is right in itself, but even when no immoral
oath is involved, it contravenes the historical position of the Church,,
and the repeated deliberate utterances of this court.

Finally, although this measure has never, in so many words, been
formally rescinded, yet by the well-known rule of law, that subsequent
action necessarily sets aside prior action of a contrary nature, the
deliverance of 1868, in the respect and to the extent already defined,
has, by the action of 1875, re-affirmed in 1882, been virtually and really
repealed.

Other members of the same Committee submitted
the following report :

Voting for amendments to State Constitutions involves an act of
voluntary incorporation with the governing political body, of which we
say in our Covenant, " We will not incorporate with it until Reforma-
tion is secured."

We therefore recommend that our people be enjoined to abstain-
from voting for amendments to State Constitutions.

An interesting letter was received from the Associate
Reformed Synod of the South recommending a Con-
vention' of all the Churches holding the same doctrinal
symbols and who use exclusively the Psalms of the
Bible in worship.

The Synod of 1885, met in Morning Sun, Iowa. The
delegates to the Conference of Psalm-singing Churches
reported that on account of our relations on civil affairs
no union could be effected. The Synod took the
following action with reference to weekly offerings of
worship :

1. That Synod reaffirm the principle that the tithe is the law of
God under the New Testament dispensation and that it is the least
measure of liberality.

2. That the envelope system of weekly offerings be approved as
in harmony with Scripture and wisely adapted for the end, and that
our congregations be advised to consider it for adoption.

3. That in discussing this subject the preferences and convictions

-158 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

of all parties be duly and kindly considered, and that forbearance
be shown in reconciling differences ; and whatever plan is adopted
by a congregation we most earnestly urge and exhort the minority,
since it is not a matter of conscience but of expediency, that they
cease opposition and cordially acquiesce in it until by Christian per-
suasion a change is effected.

The following resolutions on Temperance were adopted:

1. We urge all our people to recognize the importance of the tem-
perance cause, and its claim on their active and earnest support. That
our Presbyteries be enjoined to hold temperance institutes or conven-
tions, for the discussion and advocacy of this cause. That sessions be
urged to give practical force to the recently adopted article on temper-
ance, in admitting members, and faithfully to enforce the discipline of
the church, in all cases where the law is violated.

2. We denounce the whole license system, as wrong in principle
and most pernicious in practice — involving the nation in the guilt and
shame of the liquor traffic to which it gives its consent, as ineffectual
for the restraint or suppression of the evil, and an utter violation of
the high trust God has committed to civil government as His ordinance.

3. Support of political parties that favor or ignore this nefarious
business, or even incorporation with the government, is inconsistent
with fidelity to Christ, and involves those who continue in such alliance
in the guilt and ignominy of the liquor trafi&c.

4. That it is our duty as a Church to give to all scriptural measures,
moral, political or legislative, for the suppression of this traffic, all that
support and advocacy which is consistent with our position of political
dissent ; and especially that our women be encouraged to co-operate
with the W. C. T. U. in its noble work of faith and labor of love.

5. We re-affirm the former actions of this court, enjoining sessions
as far as possible, to use only unintoxicating wine in the administration
of the Lord's Supper.

Having a concrete case before it, the Synod directs
members of the Church to " take no part in the
use of uninspired hymns in any service that may
be regarded as the worship of God." Synod also says :
" It is most expedient that the Mod'erator of a Church
court be a minister of the Gospel."

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. I 59

The Synod of 1886, met in the city of Rochester,
New York. On Secret Societies the Committee reported:

Speculative Freemasonry, the type of all modern secret societies,
•originated at Appletree Tavern, London, in 1717. The idea is bor-
rowed from the heathen. Secret societies have been known in all
lands in connection with the worship of false deities. Some of these
claim the highest degree of piety ; others still claiming to worship
their God, are expressly designed for criminal purposes.

The immediate parentage of Freemasonry were the guilds of opera-
tive masons, in the middle ages, their object being to control architec-
ture, like the present trades unions. They are, therefore, necessarily
of a selfish character, and charity is the veil to hide the real end.

The principal feature of secret societies is the oath or promise of
perpetual concealment, and this often with horrible penalties annexed.
The effect of such engagement is to take away the right of private
judgment and to put another's conscience in place of one's own.

The penalties have been understood by the lodges themselves to be
literal, and to forfeit life, property and character. Foul murders and
implacable persecutions have followed the attempt of good men to
free conscience from lodge tyranny.

Yet they claim to be religious — more religious and charitable than
the Church. The Masons boast of the universal religion in which all
men agree. This places Jew, heathen and Christian on a common
platform, on which God, under the name of Grand Architect, is wor-
shipped without Christ. Other societies model after the same pattern.
These orders also are in spirit and forms despotic, as their own
authorities affirm. They are readily used by bad men to screen them
from the just punishment of their crimes. The so-called benevolent
•societies provide and hold in readiness the machinery which bad men
use for the destruction of life and property.

Socialists employ them for revolutionary purposes, and conspiring and
plotting in secret have filled the world with horror and alarm. They
liinder the freedom of manufacture and business, and force trade into
ways injurious to the public.

How should the Church stand toward such organizations? If Baal
■worship was the abomination that God hated of old, surely he hates
the abomination done in secret lodges ; all good men should hold their
works in detestation.

l60 ^ HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Among other things the report on the tobacco-
question says :

The cultivation, manufacture, sale and use of tobacco are in measure
under ban in the Reformed Presbyterian Church. Tobacco is pro-
hibited to theological students. Presbyteries are enjoined to refuse
license to any who are addicted to its use. Presbyteries are justified
in refusing appointments to any laborer who may be assigned to them,
and is a user of tobacco. Ministers, elders, deacons and Sabbath
School teachers are admonished to abstain from the use of this filthy
weed. Members of the Church are warned against its use as a blemish
on Christian character.

The following strong resolutions on the same subject
were passed :

1. We hold that the habitual use of tobacco in the usual forms, as
well as the cultivation and sale of tobacco for such use, are incon-
sistent with the Christian profession, and our members are solemnly
enjoined not to engage in or continue in this business.

2. We earnestly and affectionately urge every member of the Church
who is addicted to its use in any form, to break oflf the habit at once.

3. That we renew the injunction to Presbyteries, not to license any
one to preach, nor to ordain any one to the ministry, who persists in
the use of this filthy weed.

4. That Sessions be enjoined not to ordain any one to the office of
elder or deacon, who is addicted to this habit.

5. That Sessions be instructed to strongly urge youthful applicants
for membership in the Church, to refrain from using tobacco.

Rev. James Kennedy was chosen professor of
Theology to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death
of the Rev. J. R. W. Sloane, D. D. Mr. Kennedy,
however, declined the position, and the Rev. R. J.
George temporarily filled the chair for the following
winter. Synod condemned the organization and methods
of the Knights of Labor, for the following reasons :

I. Because they are confessedly organized on the principles of
secrecy, contrary to our standing Testimony.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. l6l

2. The form of their society is that of absolute despotism, the
members being under obligation to render unqestioning obedience in
carrying out the dictates ot their leaders, right or wrong, often in
violation of the rights of their fellow-citizens.

3. Because they assume to dictate to the employer, not only the
wages to be paid for service, but the persons to be employed, and all
the conditions of the service, leaving him a helpless slave in the hands
of a society with which he holds no relation.

4. They forbid non-union men to labor, and contractors to employ
them, thus by the grossest tyranny monopolizing all rights and privi-
leges to themselves.

5. They compel manufacturers and dealers to discharge freemen, or
refuse them the right to buy or sell or carry on their business.

6. They interfere with the rights of the government by dictating to
legislators and executors of law, and by making void all authority
save their own.

7. All this they do, following the example of Freemasons, by
•secretly pursuing the objects of their vengeance, and hunting down
their reputation and their business in a way that prevents obtaining
redress by the law.

We, therefore, declare that Reformed Presbyterians cannot belong to
these Associations without renouncing all the traditions of their history
in favor of civil and ecclesiastical liberty and the rights of God and
man. Further, we declare that our members ought to suffer rather
than sin, by partnership in such practices. And further, we enjoin
the members of our Church, rich and poor, to stand shoulder to shoulder
in opposition to this tyranny, and we pledge ourselves and our members
that we will not permit the poor to suffer unaided, but will consider
what is done to persecute the least as done to all, and we will not stand
by and see our dear brethren driven under the cruel lash of this new
task-master, but will come to their aid with our goods, and if need
be, with our lives.

Synod gave the following deliverances : That in
■cases where our ministers conduct services in other
Churches, they must not give out hymns of human
composition, but use any good version of the Psalms ;
and, if instrumental music is used, they must have it

1 62 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

understood that they do not sanction that part of the
service. Members were urged not to sit on juries
where an immoral oath was required. The Synod
adopted the following resolutions :

Whereas, This Church has occupied a position of dissent from the
government of the country on account of the infidel character of the
National Constitution ; and,

Whereas, This reason of dissent is not removed ; therefore,

Resolved, i. That voting on amendments to State Constitutions, or tO'
the Constitution of the United States, or to revised forms of Con-
stitutions, when conditioned on an expressed or implied approval of
the National Constitution as a compact of government, is inconsistent
with our position of political dissent.

Resolved, 2. That Presbyteries be directed to take no notice of
inconsistencies which may have occurred during the discussion of this-
question by Synod.

Resolved, 3. That Synod will hold Presbyteries hereafter strictly
responsible for the maintenance of discipline on this point.

The Synod of 1887, met in the city of Newburgh^
New York. The meeting was a large and harmonious
one, and the papers and discussions were of a most
interesting character. The Synod re-afifirmed her
distinctive position, leaving no misunderstanding about
what she believed and practiced. Rev. R. J. George
was twice elected to fill the vacancy in the Theolog-
ical Seminary, but declined. The Rev. J. K. McClurkin
was then chosen, and accepted. Revs. J. P. Dardier of
Switzerland, and Dr. A. P. Happer ot China, addressed
the court on the cause of evangelization in those
countries. Rev. W. J. Sproull, returned missionary from
Syria, addressed the Synod. A Committee was ap-
pointed to make a suitable revision of the Psalms.
With reference to the character of mission work that

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 63.

may be properly done by students of theology, the
Synod says :

That while students of ;theology are not authorized to preach the
gospel until they are licensed by Presbytery ; yet there is a large amount
of work in which they may be profitably employed. They may act
as colporteurs ; organize and teach in Sabbath Schools, and under
the direction and supervision of the Presbytery to which they belong,
they may be employed in such evangelical work as Presbytery may
designate.

With a concrete case before it, Synod decided that
mutes, who are members of the Church, are entitled
to all privileges as such, and have a right to vote
in elections of the congregations, and to pay all their
quotas to the schemes of the Church. A pastoral
letter was directed to be written touching upon the
matters that were before Synod, and press them on
the attention of the people. Plans for the establish-
ment of an Indian Mission, for the better support of
the Theological Seminary, and for a fund for Ministers'
Widows' and Orphans' were laid before the court. In
the report on the jury question it is plainly and satis-
factorily shown that Reformed Presbyterians cannot take
the immoral oath required, and serve the designs of
that ofifice in consistency with their avowed position of
dissent from the Constitution of the United States.
A revision of the Book of Psalms for the use of the
Church was completed in the fall of 1887. The Com-
mittee performing this work consisted of Revs. David
McAllister, T. P. Stevenson, R. M, Sommerville, J. C.
K. Milligan, and elders Henry O'Neil, William Neely
and W. T. Miller. The work will be presented at the
meeting of Synod in May, 1888. A Committee of

1 64 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Synod met a similar Committee of the United Pres-
byterian Church to formulate a basis of union. While
there seemed to be a general agreement as to the
-doctrine of the headship of Christ, the latter body
was not prepared to make a practical application of
that principle, and it is not likely that a union can
be effected.

The principal deliverances of Synod, touching upon
the distinctive principles of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church, have been noticed, leaving the members of this
Church inexcusable, and others instructed, with reference
to her peculiar principles. It is believed that her
principles are Scriptural and her conduct consistent
with her high profession, and that the cause for which
■Covenanters contend will ultimately prevail.

From the reports of 1887, the following condition
of the Church is gathered :

Ministers, 114; Licentiates, 11 ; Students of Theo-
logy, 20; Congregations, 121; Communicants, 10,832;
Total Contributions, $24.04 per member for the year.

The Synod of 1888, meets in the city of Allegheny,
Pennsylvania, during the sessions of which the Bi-
centenary of the Revolution Settlement will be suitably
•observed.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 165

Congregations and Societies.

NEW BRUNSWICK.

Saint John. This city was settled by loyalists who
fled from New England during the American Revolution,
and it now contains, with its suburbs, a population of
nearly fifty thousand inhabitants. It possesses an excel-
lent harbor and is a city of considerable commercial
importance. Very early in the present century, a few
Covenanters from Scotland and Ireland found abode in
this city, and for many years worshipped together
without the form of an organization. In the year
1820, these people made application to the Northern
Presbytery of the American Church for preaching
ordinances. The matter was brought before that court
at the following meeting, and, in the spring of 1821,
the Presbytery sent the Revs. James R. and Samuel
M. Willson on an exploring expedition to these Prov-
inces. As a result of their visit they found in the
city of Saint John, seven families regularly certified
from the Covenanter congregations beyond the sea, and
organized them into a praying society. The mission-
aries then opened up a correspondence with the sister
Churches of Scotland and Ireland, related to them of
their success and the needs of their countrymen, and
urgently requested them to send missionaries to these
10

1 66 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

destitute yet steadfast people. The Irish Church
regarded it as a Macedonian cry. The Synod of
Ireland organized the Home and Foreign Missionary
Society in 1826, and sought for a suitable person to
send as a missionary to the British North American
Provinces. During the following winter, while the great
Sheridan Knowles was giving readings in Belfast, which
were held in the largest theatre in the city, one of
the Presbyteries sent a Committee to the theatre to
wait upon Mr. Alexander Clarke, then a • theological
student, to have him go as a missionary to Nova
Scotia. He felt that it was the call of his Master
and accepted the appointment. The following spring
he was duly licensed and ordained for this field, and,
in August, 1827, arrived safely in the city of Saint
John. In 1828, he organized the congregation of Saint
John with forty-five members. In 1833, a comfortable
house of worship was erected in that portion of the
city known as the Lower Cove. Mr. Clarke continued
to preach to them, and societies adjacent, for several
years, and then removed to the more inviting field of
Eastern Nova Scotia. Saint John being now destitute
of regular preaching, the needs of the congregation
were repeatedly presented to the notice of the Church
in Ireland and to the Society which was sustaining
the Mission. These applications, however, were not
answered until the spring of 1841, when Mr. Alexander
McLeod Stavely offered his services as a missionary
to this city. His offer was joyfully accepted, and, for
this purpose, he was ordained by the Northern Presby-
tery at Kilraughts, Ireland, May 12, 1841. He sailed

Presbyterian church in America. 167

from Greenock in June, and arrived safely in Saint
John in August, 1841. He found a congregation of
about seventy-five members, to whose spiritual \yants
he at once devoted his labors with energy and suc-
cess. The old house of worship in Lower Cove was
sold in 1850, because it was neither in a desirable
nor central location. The congregation erected a well-
appointed church and manse on the corner of Sydney
and Princess streets. Here the people worshipped for
twenty-seven years, and gradually grew in numbers
and Christian influence. The church and manse, with
all their contents, were swept away by the great con-
flagration of June, 1877, when two hundred acres of
the best of the city were laid in ashes. This great
loss to the Covenanter congregation at a time when
a serious financial depression immediately followed,
disheartened many of the people, who left the city to
seek their fortunes in a western clime. With that
courage which knows no defeat, and which is
characteristic of the Scotch-Irish, these people, encour-
aged by their pastor, began the erection of the
present commodious and convenient church building
in 1878, situated on the corner of Carleton and Peele
streets. Notwithstanding the encouragements that pre-
sented themselves, Mr. Stavely resigned the congrega-
tion in July, 1879, and returned to his native Ireland.
Licentiates were now sent from the States and Saint
John was one of the vacancies. The Rev. A. J.
McFarland spent a part of the winter of 1881 in the
congregation. Having received a unanimous call to
become their pastor, he accepted, and was duly installed

l68 • HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

August 4, 1882. The church and manse, which are
models of neatness and convenience, were completed
in the fall of 1883, and the congregation began a new
lease of life. In the spring of 1887, the congregation
suffered a severe financial stroke by the failure of one
of the chief supporters and most efficient members.
The Church in the States nobly contributed to the
cause, and soon these worthy people will be lifted out
of their straits. Among the fathers and heads of
families who have been prominent in the life of the
Saint John congregation are : Thomas Maclellan, John
Boyd, George Suffren, Robert Ewing, John Millen,
William Dougall, George Bell, John McMaster, Samuel
Reid, John Toland, James Miller, Mrs. Russell, Mrs.
Cunningham, James Dunbar, Neil Morrison, R. A. H.
Morrow, John Baxter, J. O. Miller, W. G. Brown,
Dr. Morrison and Thomas A. Dunlap.

Barnesville. This is a beautiful little villa cosily
nestled among the evergreen hills between the Ham-
mond River and the lakes of Loch Lomond, twenty
miles south-east of the city of Saint John. The con-
gregation now derives its name from the village but
was formerly known as South Stream. The Rev.
James Reid Lawson, who came as a missionary from
Ireland in 1845, after visiting several localities, settled
in this place the following year when there were only
two Covenanters in this section of the country. In
1856, he resigned the charge and accepted a call to
the congregation of Boston, Massachusetts, but after a
year's labor in that city, he returned to his first charge
at Barnesville. Here he continued his labor of love.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 69

not only preaching to his own congregation, but making
missionary tours through all parts of the Province.
Suffering from a stroke of paralysis, which rendered
almost useless his left side, he was compelled to resign
the charge in the spring of 1882, since which time
he has lived in comparative retirement at his country
home in the suburbs of Barnesville. For five years
the congregation was supplied by the Central Board of
Missions, and the services were kept up pretty regularly.
The Rev. Thomas Patton became the pastor in May,
1887, and the Covenanters of Barnesville have the
prospect of becoming a flourishing congregation. Among
those who have long been connected with the Barnes-
ville congregation are the families of Rev. Mr. Lawson,
Dr. Brady, Parks, Curry, Millican, Toland, Kelso, Hender-
son, McCracken, Armstrong, Barnes, Bell, and others.

Mill Stream. This was a Mission Station about
fifty miles east of the city of Saint John, and was
established by the Rev. A. M. Stavely about 1858. A
small house of worship was erected near Queenstown,
and the society, which at one time was composed of
thirty members, frequently received preaching by the
ministers in the Provinces. It was an out-of-the-way
place, and by emigration and death it is nearly extinct.
The Elders, Galleys and Grindons, were among the
principal families.

MONCTON. This is a live young city of some eight
thousand inhabitants, situated ninety miles east of Saint:
John and within fifteen miles of the Strait of North-
umberland. Having received many urgent invitations;
from members of the congregations of Barnesville andl

I/O HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Saint ^John, who were living in this city, the Rev. A.
J. McFarland visited them in the spring of 1884. His
services were followed by those of several licentiates
from the States, who preached in Ruddick's Hall and
the old Union Church in Steadman street. Quite a
congregation gathered from those who were dissatisfied
with the human inventions of other Churches, and a
few disaffected members of the Presbyterian Church
joined them. In the fall of 1885, Mr. McFarland
organized them into a mission station and they con-
tinued to receive occasional supplies. Among the prin-
cipal members and supporters are the families of A.
J. Millican, Charles Elliot, Dr. Ross and the Misses
Grindon. There were other places in the Province of
New Brunswick where the ministers frequently preached,
but no organizations were effected. Among these are
Ouaco, Black River, Chepody, Hopewell, Neripis, Lon-
donderry, Jerusalem, Salt Springs and Passakeag. Rev.
Alexander Clarke established mission stations in Sack-
ville, Nappan and Murray's Corner, but these passed
under the control of the New School brethren in 1847,
and are since about extinct.

NOVA SCOTIA.

Amherst. The Rev. Alexander Clarke, missionary
from Ireland, first visited this region in 1828, and this
was the scene of most of his labors for forty years.

When he came to this part of the Province he
found a few adhering to Reformation principles scattered
over a vast area of country, but the outside world was

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 171

a vast moral wilderness. If he had followed the method
of many missionaries in a new country, and admitted
indiscriminately persons to the privileges of, the Church,
he could have had large accessions. But this he would
not do. He preferred the purity of the Church to the
number of her members, and gave applicants a careful
examination before he admitted them to the privileges
of the Church. He dispensed the first Covenanter Com-
munion in the fall of 1830, and a large audience
waited upon the services. Fifty communicants from
New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island
sat down at the table of the Lord for the first time
in their adopted country.* In 1 831, the Rev. William
Sommerville and Mr. Andrew Stevenson, Catechist, were
sent to Nova Scotia as missionaries by the Church in
Ireland. Revs. Alexander Clarke and William Som-
merville, with Elders, constituted the Reformed Presby-
tery of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, under the
care of the Synod of Ireland, April 25, 1832. The
congregation of Amherst was placed under the charge of
Rev. Alexander Clarke, and was composed of numerous
branches. Among the preaching stations, which subse-
quently became congregations, were Shemogue, River
Hebert, Goose River, Port Elgin, Rockland, Truro and
Pictou. In the year 1847, Mr. Clarke identified himself
with the government which the Covenanters under the
British Crown had been endeavoring to reform for many
years, and the same government which had inflicted the
persecution upon his forefathers in Scotland. He con-
nected himself, and all the societies he represented,

* Report to Irish Synod, 1831.

1 72 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

with the New School body of the United States, and
by defection, death and emigration. New School Cove-
nanterism is almost extinct in this region.

HORTOX. The congregation which was gathered in
the historic village of Grand Pre, was commonly called
Lower Horton, from its location in the township of
Horton. It is near the Basin of Minas, sixty-two
miles north-west of the city of Halifax. This was the
land of the Acadians, and where, in 1755, over two
thousand souls were exiled from peaceful homes and
fruitful fields which they had built by their own
industry and reclaimed from the sea by hard labor.
There may be viewed to-day the ruins of their church
and those of hundreds of dwellings, as well as the
place of the graveyard and home of Evangeline, and
the beach at the mouth of the Gaspereaux from
which they embarked in the ships which had been
prepared for them.* Horton was first supplied with
regular preaching in 1765, by the Rev. John Murdock,
a Presbyterian minister from Ireland. His connection
with this congregation ceased in 1790, on account of
his intemperate habits. In 1829, the Rev. Alexander
Clarke visited them and preached in this community
several Sabbaths. In 1832, the Rev. William Sommer-
ville was invited by these people to settle in Horton.
They promised him the use of a free house and garden
owned by the congregation, and as much money as
they could possibly raise for preaching every alternate

* The situation and incidents of the expulsion of the peaceful Acadians
have been minutely described by the lamented Longfellow in his "Exile
of the Acadians," and the pathetic story of " Evangeline."

■PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 73.

Sabbath. They agreed also to sing the Psahns of
David and comply to other practices of the church,..
and gradually the congregation became in theory and
practice a Covenanter congregation. He accepted their
invitation and terms, and became the regular pastor
in 1835. This same year he was also presented with,
a call from the people of West Cornwallis for a part
of his time, which was by him accepted, and from
this date to that of his death, in 1878, he was pastor
of the . united congregations of Horton and Cornwallis.
His increased labor, and that under physical decline,,
demanded the assistance of another minister. To meet
this requirement, his son, the Rev. Robert M. Sommer-
ville, was ordained and installed co-pastor, October 16,
1 86 1. He soon afterwards built a church in Wolfville
for the better accommodation of some of the people of
that community, where he preached until 1873. The
building was afterwards sold and the services all con-
ducted at Horton congregation in the village of Grand
Pre. The church building here is in the southern
part of the historic village, with the accustomed large
grounds and spacious graveyard. It was built about
1 8 10, and is decidedly antique in architecture, having
the regulation high pulpit, sounding board, box pews
and commodious gallery. In the summer of 1881, the
Rev. Thomas McFall became the pastor at Cornwallis^
and preached here a part of his time, until it became
disorganized by the death of an elder in 1886. Among
the families in this branch are those of Harvey,.
McDonald, Chase, Trenholm and Newcomb.

Cornwallis. This congregation derives its name
from the township in Kings County, in the central

174 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

part of the Province, and is situated some eighty-five
miles north-west of Halifax. The valley is a very fertile
one and the orchards are luxuriant. It is a fruitful
garden and has long been occupied by a thrifty and
industrious people. About the beginning of the present
century, the Rev. William Forsythe, a Scotchman,
whose remains lie in the silent graveyard of Grand
Pre, labored here as a Presbyterian missionary for nearly
thirty years. In 1831, the Rev. William Sommerville
entered the field and occasionally preached to Presby-
terians generally, and over a vast extent of territory,
until the spring of 1835, when he became the pastor,
and remained until his death in 1878. The Presbytery
had made arrangements previous to his death for the
supply of the pulpit, and, during the summer of 1878,
Mr. W. J. Sproull, licentiate, and late missionary to
Syria, filled the pulpit with so much acceptance that
they tendered him a unanimous call, which, however,
he saw fit to decline. In the summer of 1881, the
Rev. Thomas McFall was ordained and installed pastor,
and after the adjustment of certain difificulties about
baptism, the congregation has been in a harmonious
and flourishing condition. The church building is not
far from the village of Somerset, and the parsonage,
which was burned in November, 1887, was located in
the village. There are preaching stations at North
Mountain, Ross' Corners and the public hall in Somerset.
Among the faithful followers of Covenanterism in this
section are the families of Mortons, Newcombs,
Cochrans, Colemans, Woodworths, Magees, Sommervilles,
.and others.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 75

WiLMOT. This small mission station is fifteen miles
west of the Cornwallis congregation. It was begun in
1834, when Mr. John Allan, a Covenanter who had
emigrated from the north of Ireland to this place,
travelled forty miles to Grand Pre to visit Mr. Som-
merville and have him come and preach to his country-
men on Handly Mountain. This visit lead to the
organization of a society, which was occasionally visited
until 1849, when the Rev. Robert Stewart took charge
of it, and where he remained until 1881. He also
preached in Margaretville, Lawrencetown, and other
places, and gathered quite a congregation. The church
building is a neat and comfortable frame structure
near Melverne Square. Since 1881, the congregation
has enjoyed supplies sent out by the Central Board of
Missions, and a good deal of interest was manifested
in reviving the work. The families of Mr. Stewart,
Mr. Kerr and Mr. Outhit have done much to keep
the cause alive.

MAINE.

HOULTON. The few families of Covenanters which
settled five miles north of Houlton, were from Don-
egal, Ireland, and were organized into the Littleton
Society in 1859. These thrifty people reside on both
sides of the line between Maine and New Brunswick,
and are tenaciously attached to Reformation principles.
For many long years they kept up the society meet-
ings and read one of Dr. Houston's sermons as a
substitute for a discourse delivered with the living

176 \ HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

voice. They built a meeting house which was replaced'
by a comfortable frame church in 1883. Mr. J. A. F.
Bovard labored here during the summer of 1880, under
appointment of the Central Board of Missions. He
was ordained to the office of the holy ministry in
the summer of 1881, and settled as a missionary among
them, and remained until the spring of 18^84. He
was instrumental in gathering the people together and
rebuilding their house of worship. The Central Board
of Missions has almost constantly supplied them during
the summer months. The several families of Hender-
sons, and their connections, form the great majority
of the membership. They are worthy to be mentioned
as the only Presbyterian Church in the State of Maine
for many years.

NEW HAMPSHIRE.

No congregations of Covenanters were ever organized
in the State of New Hampshire. Doubtless individuals
and families found abode within its limits, but not in
an organized capacity. In his diary, the Rev. John
Cuthbertson says he visited New Hampshire in the
fall of 1766, but he gives neither the names of the
places nor the families he visited. In a missionary
tour through this State in 1845, ^^e Rev. James R.
Willson, D. D., found but two members — one living in
the village of Lyman Plains, and the other near the
city of Concord.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 77

VERMONT.

Ryegate. The Ryegate society of Covenanters may
:be regarded as the parent of all the congregations in
Vermont. It is situated on the Connecticut river and
in the south-eastern corner of Caledonia County. Dr.
Witherspoon was the original owner of the land in
this section, and encouraged the Scotch emigrants to
settle upon it about a century ago. In 1789, these
people petitioned the Associate Presbytery for preach-
ing, and, as the outcome of their earnest, desires for
services, the Rev. David Goodwillie was installed the
pastor of Ryegate and Barnet, February 8, 1791, and
continued in this relation until his death in 1830.
Some of these Scotch settlers, however, did not connect
with the Associate Church. Among these were the
Whitehills, Holmeses, and others. They continued to
hold society meetings among themselves and would not
wait upon the ministrations of others, in this respect
following the example of their forefathers in Scotland.
At the formation of the Reformed Presbytery in the
spring of 1798, they petitioned for the services of a
Covenanter minister ; and, according to their wishes,
the Rev. William Gibson was sent to them the same
fall. In the winter of 1798, the Rev. James McKinney
also visited them, and encouraged them to call Mr.
Gibson to be their pastor. This they did, and, ac-
cepting, he was duly installed pastor of the Ryegate
congregation, and societies adjacent, July 10, 1799. In
March, 1800, he also became town minister. Here he
labored assiduously in defence of the principles of the

178 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Church for fifteen years, and until his release in 1815.
The congregation languished for a little, and in many
respects became very disorderly. A call having been
importunately presented, the Rev. James Milligan was
installed pastor in 18 17. The elders at this time in
the different societies were Messrs. Whitehill and Cald-
well of Ryegate ; Hindman of Barnet ; McKeith and
McNeice of Topsham. Mr. Milligan's administration
was not free from serious trouble, yet he labored faith-
fully for over twenty years, and, when he left the
congregation in 1839, the parent Church was twice as
large as he found it, and two others were organized
from it. In 1844, the Rev. James M. Beattie was
settled over the congregation, and the elders at the
time were Messrs. Johnston, Coburn and McCIure of
Ryegate ; and Whitehill and McLaren of Barnet. Mr.
Beattie labored faithfully among them for thirty-eight
years, and resigned on account of the state of his
health in 1882. In 1883, the Rev. Hugh W. Reed
became the pastor, and, after three years of labor, he
resigned the charge, and efforts have been made to
obtain a pastor. Of the old members in Ryegate are
James Whitehill, Josiah Quint, Robert Dickson, John
Nelson, William Nelson, Jonathan Coburn, John Maclain,
James McLam, William Bone, Charles B. Harriman,
David Lang, Duncan Ritchie, James Beattie, Walter
Buchanan, William Johnston, John Dunn, Thomas
Hastie, Allan Stewart, John Brock, John Davidson,.
Henry E. Whitehill, Archibald Ritchie.

Barnet. The present Barnet congregation was a
part of the Ryegate charge until its separate organiza-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 79

tion in 1872. Rev. Daniel C. Paris was installed
pastor in 1873, and is still in charge. Of the old
members at Barnet are mentioned, William McLaren,
William Keenan, William Whitehill, A. W. McLam,
Robert McLam, Alexander Shields.

CraftsbuRV. The Craftsbury congregation of Cove-
nanters is pleasantly situated in Orleans County, some
twenty-five miles directly south of the Canada line.
It occupies an extensive and beautiful table land
between two ranges of the Green mountains.* The
first Covenanter, in this vicinity was Mr. Robert Trum-
bull, originally from Cambuslang, Scotland, and who
removed from Wilbraham, Massachusetts, to this place
in 1788, as one of the first settlers of Craftsbury.
Mr. Trumbull was a member of the Established
Church of Scotland, and, in coming to America,
connected with the Congregational Church, so prevalent
in New England. He never was satisfied with this
body of Christians on account of their heterodox views
respecting the atonement of Christ, and their loose
practices in many ways. He earnestly desired and
ceaselessly labored to secure a return to puritanic
orthodoxy. After unsuccessful attempts in this direction,
he waited upon tfie Congregational services at Peacham
and Barnet, but things were no better in these
churches. It was suggested to him that no denom-
ination would fit his ideas and principles unless it was
the "McMillanites " down at Ryegate, who had the
Rev. William Gibson for their pastor. He determined
to hear Mr. Gibson. It was a communion Sabbath,.

* Sketch in Covenanter, Vol. 2, p. 343.

l8o HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and the preacher was unusually comforting and eloquent
on this occasion. Mr. Trumbull remained until the
close of the services on Monday, and then returned
to Craftsbury contented and cheered because he had
found a denomination of Christians with which he
•could fellowship in all his views. In June, 1807, the
Rev. Mr. Gibson preached in Craftsbury in compliance
with a cordial invitation extended by Colonel Crafts,
Mr. Trumbull, and others. This was the first Cove-
nanter preaching known to have been given in Crafts-
bury. In the spring of 1808, Mr. Trumbull and
his family connected with the Covenanter congregation
of Ryegate. Mr. Gibson preached his last discourses
in Craftsbury, September 4, 18 14. The subject of his
morning lecture was a part of the fifty-third chapter
of Isaiah, and in the afternoon he preached upon the
sixth verse of the same chapter. On the following
Sabbath, the Rev. Mr. Farren, the Congregational
minister, argued against the doctrine of the substi-
tutionary sacrifice of Christ, which Mr. Gibson had
taught, and maintained the doctrine of universal atone-
ment, which was the system known as the " Hopkinsian
heresy." This discourse of Mr. Farren gave offence to
many of his hearers, and a considerable number left
the communion of the Congregational Church and kept
society meetings with Mr. Trumbull. In the winter of
181 5, the Rev. John Cannon, then a licentiate, preached
with great acceptance, and convinced many of the
impropriety of the New England custom of beginning
the Sabbath on Saturday evening and ending it at
sundown on the Lord's day. In September, 18 16, the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. l8l

first session meeting was held at the house of Mr.
Robert Trumbull, and the Craftsbury society became
a regularly organized congregation. Among the first
members enrolled were : Robert Trumbull, Lucy Bab-
cock Trumbull his wife, his children James, Mary,
Nancy, Clarissa, and his nephew James Trumbull ;
John Babcock, Elizabeth Babcock, Leonard Morse,
Elizabeth Morse, Mrs, Johnston, Phebe Johnston, Benja-
min Morse, Ephraim Morse, Mrs. Rodgers and Mrs.
Wylie. The society continued to enjoy the ministra-
tions of the Rev. James Milligan of Ryegate until
1833, when they felt they were able to support a
pastor themselves. In the spring of 1833, the Rev.
Samuel M. Willson became the pastor when their
membership numbered sixty communicants. Mr. Willson
labored diligently for twelve years and gathered many
into the church. He resigned in 1845, and returned to
the State of New York. In 1846, the Rev. Renwick
Z. Willson, nephew of the former pastor, took charge
of the congregation. At this time the elders were
James Trumbull, Alexander Shields, John A. Morse,
Stephen Babcock, Leonard Harriman and John Anderson.
After nine years of service, Mr. Willson resigned in
1855. Henceforth the pastorates were of short duration
owing to the severity of the climate and the paucity
of members. In 1857, the Rev. John M. Armour was
installed pastor and remained until 1865. Three years
it was a vacancy. The Rev. Archibald W. Johnston
took the charge in 1868, and resigned in 1871, on
account oi the impaired health of his wife. Since
1873, the Rev. John C. Taylor has been the pastor,

l82 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and has done a good work. The congregation is small,
but they are a worthy people, and have a noble
history for faithfulness to Reformation principles. Other
worthy members are Aurelius Morse, John Wylie,.
James Mitchell, John Gillies and James Anderson.

TOPSHAM. The Topsham society was a part of the
Ryegate and Barnet congregation until its separate
existence in the fall of 1818. The elders in this branch
were Robert McNeice, William McNutt and Thomas
McKeith. In the fall of 1820, they succeeded in getting
a pastor in the person of the eminent Rev. William
Sloane. Including the societies of Tunbridge and New-
bury, they numbered forty members. In a short time
the congregation nearly doubled its numbers and many
worthy Christians were added to the Church. Mr.
Sloane resigned in 1829, and removed to Ohio. For
twenty-three long years it was a vacancy, but held
its organization, and enjo)'ed occasional supplies by
Presbytery. In 1852, the Rev. Nathan R. Johnston
was installed pastor, and labored under many difficulties
and sacrifices for thirteen years. He resigned in 1865.
For four years they were without pastoral oversight.
In 1869, the Rev. James M. Faris undertook the
office of pastor among them, but resigned in 1872.
Since 1874, the Rev. J. C. K. Faris has been the
efficient pastor, and the Covenanter cause is still
maintained with many tokens of the Divine blessing.
Of old members are Daniel Keenan, John Peabody,
Josiah Divoll, John McNeice, Parker McNeice, Ebenezer
Currier.

Saint Johnsburv. This is a new field. The Rev.
W. R. Laird, then a licentiate, began labor in this

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 83

growing city in the spring of 1879, and was the first
Covenanter minister to preach in this community. By
his pubHc ministrations in the pulpit and his indefatiga-
ble labors among the people, he saw the fruits of his
work in the organization of a congregation of thirty
eight members in the summer of 1879, only a few
months after he entered the field. Having received a
call from these people, Mr. Laird was duly ordained
and installed pastor of the Saint Johnsbury congrega-
tion in May, 1880, and is yet in charge. They soon
erected a beautiful and comfortable church building,
and the congregation has steadily grown in numbers
and influence.

MASSACHUSETTS.

According to the diary of the Rev. John Cuthbert-
son there must have been a society of Covenanters
at Pelham, Hampshire County, a little east of the
Connecticut river. Mr. Cuthbertson visited this region
in the fall of 1759, and preached on his way at
different places in Connecticut. His places of preach-
ing in Massachusetts were Sheffield, Berkshire County ;
Westfield, Hampden County ; Northampton and Pelham,
Hampshire County. He preached in the latter place
several Sabbaths, and on October 28, 1759, he preached
in the meeting house, which seems to imply that the
Covenanters had such a place of worship in that town.
The Rev. Alexander McDowell was a disaffected min-
ister once placed over the Presbyterian congregation
at Colerain, in the same neighborhood, and who, in

184 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

1759, seems to have left that body and associated
himself wath the Covenanter societies of Massachusetts
and Connecticut. Mr. Cuthbertson remained in this
region for two months and returned to Pennsylvania
in the middle of December, 1759, and probably did
not visit this part of the country again. In the fall
of 1845, the Rev. James R. Willson, D. D., made a
missionary tour through this State and found a few
families of Covenanters. In the city of Lowell he
found five families, all from the congregations of Ver-
mont, who procured a church and he preached to them
and others who composed a respectable audience.*
These families were organized into a society, applied
for preaching, which they occasionally received for
some time.

Boston. Mr. Willson also visited the city of
Boston, and called upon William Lloyd Garrison
and Wendell Phillips, t who were heartily in sympathy
with the principles of the Covenanter Church, especially
in its relation and attitude towards the sin of slavery,
Mr. Willson only found one family of Covenanters in
Boston, but the Rev. A. M. Stavely found several-
families and preached to them shortly afterwards. In
1850, another worthy family arrived from Ireland, and
still later another branch of the same family, and, in
1853, these people made application to the New York
Presbytery for preaching, which was granted. They
rented a comfortable hall, centrally located, and Cove-
nanterism began to grow in the cultured metropolis of
New England and the Hub of the Universe. The

* Covenanter, Vol. i, p. 150. \ Covenanter, Vol. i, p. 241.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 85

congregation of Boston was regularly organized by a:
Commission of the New York Presbytery, consisting of-
the Rev. Samuel M. Willson and elders James Wiggins
and Andrew Knox, July 12, 1854. The congregation
numbered twenty members, two elders and one deacon.
The Rev. James R. Lawson was the first pastor,
installed November 20, 1856. The congregation then
worshipped in a hall on the second f^oor of the building
at the corner of Province and Bromfield streets. * Mr.
Lawson remained less than a year, and returned to
his former charge in New Brunswick. The rent of halls
became so burdensome that the congregation frequently
moved. For nearly three years the congregation was
a vacancy. In March, i860, the Rev. William Graham,
then a licentiate, supplied them, and until his settle-
ment as the pastor, July 12, i860. At the time of
his ordination there were thirty-nine members and some
adherents. Mr, Graham is still in charge. On account
of some discord, the seeds of which had been sown
many years before, a grant was given for another
organization. This was effected by a Commission of
the New York Presbytery, November 21, 1871. Thirty-
one members were certified from the First congrega-
tion, and two elders and two deacons were chosen.
For many years they met in halls on Hanover and
Tremont streets for worship. In 1873, the First con-
gregation erected a magnificent church edifice at the
corner of Ferdinand and Isabella streets, at a total'
cost of sixty-three thousand dollars. In 1878, the
Second congregation bought a large and commodious

* Sketch by Rev. W. Graham, R. P. & C, 1885, page 332.

1 86 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

church at a very reasonable price on Chambers street.
The Rev. David McFall was installed pastor of the
Second congregation, July ii, 1873, and is now in
charge. Both the congregations are well housed and
increasing in numbers and usefulness. The importance
of Boston as a commercial and cultured city gives our
people a prominence that is seldom eqiialled. The
Warnock family have been connected with the cause
from the beginning. The names of Mitchell, Riley,
Gillespie, Grier, Stevenson, Warnock, Larkins, Graham,
Ross, Adams, McClosky, Spragg, Calderwood, Oliver,
Semple, Glasgow, Caldwell, McClelland, Burnett, and
many other faithful standard bearers, should find mention
in this connection.

CONNFXTICUT.

There never were any regularly organized congrega-
tions in the State of Connecticut, but, no doubt, there
were a few families who found abode within the
borders. When the first Covenanters were banished to
America, historians say that some of them "went to
Connecticut and found employment after their several
trades." It is not recorded who they were, or where
they settled. In the fall of 1759, the Rev. John
Cuthbertson visited this region and remained several
weeks. He preached at Ridgefield, Danbury and New-
town in Fairfield County ; Woodbury in Litchfield
County ; and at Waterbury in New Haven County.
Doubtless the Rev. Alexander McDowell visited these
same people and^] they were in sympathy with the
principles of the Reformed Covenanting Church.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 87

CANADA WEST.

Ramsey. The region of Ontario south and west of
the city of Ottawa, and bordering on the St. Lawrence
and the lakes, was early settled by a religious and
thrifty people from Scotland and Ireland.* In the
year 181 5, large numbers of Scotch people settled in
the County of Lanark, and in 1820, at Dalhousie and
Ramsey. Many of them were consistent members of
the different branches of the Presbyterian family, and
a few trained in the faith of the Covenanter Church.
In 1 8 16, they petitioned the Associate Church of
Scotland to send them a minister. Their request was
granted, and in the spring of 1817, the Rev. William
Bell settled among them. In 1821, the Rev. Dr. John
Gemmill was sent to this Scotch settlement by the
London Missionary Society, and in 1822, the Rev,
George Buchanan of the Relief Church arrived in this
country. In a few years all' these ministers, and many
of the people, joined the Presbyterian Church of
Canada in connection with the Established Church of
Scotland. There were a few Covenanters, however,
who did not follow their brethren, and they were
joined by others, and a praying society was formed
of those living in the township of Ramsey. About
this time the families of Walter Gardner, John McEuan
and James Smith emigrated from Scotland and joined
the Covenanter society. In 1828, the Rev. James
Milligan of Vermont visited this region and preached
to these people. On his second visit in 1830, he

*From sketch by Rev. R. Shields, in Banner, 1877, pp. 33, 68, 107.

l88 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

organized them into a congregation, dispensed the
sacraments and constituted a session. James Rea, WilHam
Moir and William McQueen were chosen and ordained
ruling elders. Among the members enrolled at the organi-
zation of the first Covenanter congregation in Canada,
were : James Rea and his wife, William Moir and wife,
William McQueen and wife, James Smith, Thomas Craig
and wife, Alexander Duncan and wife, Robert Duncan,.
Duncan Ferguson, John Fulford, Walter Gardner and
wife, John Graham, John Hutcheson and wife, David
Kemp, Thomas Kennedy, Mrs. John Kilpatrick, William
Lindsay and wife, John McEuan and wife, Thomas
McKean and wife. In the fall of 1830, they were
visited by the Rev. Robert McKee, and in 1831, by
Rev. John H. Symmes, and others. In 1831, the con-
gregation received strength by the accession of the
family of James Waddell from Scotland. Mr. Waddell
was directed by the congregation to write to the Com-
mittee of the Covenanter Synod of Scotland urging
them to send a minister to them. In answer to this
petition, the late Rev. James McLachlane arrived in
the summer of 1833. At this time a serious division
was taking place in the Covenanter Church in America,
and it effected this congregation to the extent of
losing most of its members and its organization. Mr.
McLachlane reorganized the congregation with nine
members under the care of the Synod of Scotland.
James Rea, William Moir and James Waddell were
chosen ruling elders. Preaching services were also
dispensed at Packenham, Lanark and Carleton Place.
David Moffet of Carleton Place was ordained a ruling

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 189

elder February 16, 1834. During the summer of 1834,
a comfortable log church was erected on the " Eighth
line of Ramsey," about one mile from Bennies Corners.
Carleton Place had grown to a considerable society
and now received one-half the time of Mr. McLachlane.
During the summer of 1835, another log church was
erected by the people on the "Second line of Ramsey,"
and near the spot where the village of Clayton now
stands. In the fall of 1835, a petition was received
from Perth for a part of Mr. McLachlane's time, and
he preached every fifth Sabbath in this settlement.
The Perth congregation was organized in April, 1836,
and John Brown and John Holliday were ordained
ruling elders, and Francis Holliday and John Walker,
deacons. Among the original families at Perth were
those of John, James, Francis, George and David
Holliday, Lachlan Arthur, James Brice, John Brown,
Thomas Dobbie, Adam Elliot, John Graham, John
Grierson, Thomas Oliver and John Walker — in all about
thirty members. In the summer of 1837, for the
better convenience and comfort of all concerned,
Carleton Place, Perth and Ramsey were organized into
three distinct and separate congregations and each
had a session. The session of Carleton Place was
composed of David Moffet and James Waddell ; that
of Perth of John Holliday and John Brown ; and that
of Ramsey of James Rea, William Moir and Andrew
Given. John McWhinnie was added to the latter
session, February i, 1838. Mr. McLachlane preached
frequently at Clarendon, Bristol, Toronto, Hamilton,
Guelph and Gait. At a general meeting of the three

190 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

sessions, held February 7, 1839, the matter of the
pastor missionating came up for adjudication. The
strife was so great and the feehng so bitter that
elders James Rea and William Moir of Ramsey were
deposed, and many members were suspended on various
charges. The present church occupied by the people
of Carleton Place was erected in 1841. In the summer
of 1847, Ramsey being without a session of its own,
James Waddell and Andrew McKenzie were chosen
elders. In the fall of 1850, the question of accession
to the Covenanter Synod of the United States came
up before the session, and the Canadian congregations
were taken under the care of the Rochester Presbytery,
October 7, 1851. A Commission repaired to Perth to
settle certain difficulties existing between Mr. McLach-
lane and his people. After hearing the whole case,
the Commission decided that, for the peace and comfort
of all concerned, the pastoral relation should be
dissolved. This caused a division in the congregation,
a part of which strenuously adhered to Mr. McLachlane.
A second congregation was organized at Perth, June
12, 1852, and those who followed Mr. McLachlane were
Icnown as the First congregation. John and Francis
Holliday were ordained ruling elders in the new
organization. The Rev. John Middleton was installed
pastor of the Second congregation of Perth in October,
1854. A large and convenient house of worship was
erected in the town of Perth, but the debt was so heavy
upon it that the building was sold a few years after-
wards. In the fall of 1855, Mr. McLachlane resigned
the charge of First Perth, and removed to the con-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 191

gregation of Lisbon, New York. In the fall of 1856,
Mr. Middleton resigned the pastorate of Second Perth,
and these congregations never again enjoyed a settled
pastor. For nearly ten years there was not a settled
Covenanter minister in Canada, and by defection and
emigration the cause began to look like speedy extinc-
tion. In the summer of 1861, the Rev. David Scott
reorganized the Ramsey congregation by the election
of James Waddell and John Lindsay ruling elders, and
James Smith and John Waddell, deacons. At this time
there were only twenty members. Supplies were sent
as often as practicable and the cause began to revive.
The Rev. Robert Shields was ordained and installed
pastor, July 13, 1865. During his pastorate, Messrs.
John Rorison, James Thom, John Waddell, David Holli-
day, David Thom, and others, have been connected
with the session. Mr. Shields died in 1883, greatly
lamented by the Church, and especially by the com-
munity and congregation where he had done yeoman
service for his Master. The congregation has enjoyed
almost constant preaching sent out by the Central
Board of Missions, and has made efforts to obtain a
pastor.

LOCHIEL. The village of Lochiel is situated between
the St. Lawrence and Ottawa rivers, and about sixty
miles east of the city of Ottawa, or half way towards
Montreal. This society is of a more recent settlement
than Ramsey and Perth. It was fully organized in the
summer of 1861, as Glengary, and the name was
changed to Lochiel in 1867. Elders Andrew Brodie
and William Jamison have been instrumental in securing

192 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

supplies and keeping the cause alive in this section.
There are about twenty-five members and they have a
house of worship and a manse. The Rev. R. C. Allen
was settled as the pastor in the fall of 1887, ^'^d
the principles of the Church are being faithfully pre-
sented in that part of Canada. Oneida and Hamilton
were mission stations, and made out a call for the Rev.
James McLachlane in 1852, which he did not accept.
The cause in the city of Hamilton was presented by
the Rev. Joseph Henderson, who, in 1854, made defec-
tion, and took some members with him into the Free
Church. North-west of the city of Hamilton were the
stations of Galt and GUELPH, which were cultivated
awhile with some degree of encouragement, but dropped
from the list.

Toronto. The city of Toronto was long the
abode of a few families of Covenanters. In 1850,
these people raised quite a sum of money for
preaching, and the Revs. Robert Johnson, David Scott,
and others, were sent as supplies. In the spring of
185 1, a congregation of twenty members was organized,
soon a church was secured, and the cause began to-
flourish. The Rev. Robert Johnson was installed pastor
in the fall of 1852, and built up a flourishing con-
gregation, which he resigned in 1859. He was an able
preacher and a fearless advocate of the cause of
Protestantism against the evils of Roman Catholicism.
After his departure, the congregation made several un-
successful efforts to obtain a pastor, and Rev. David
Scott preached a great deal for them. The congrega-
tion became disorganized in 1868. The church property

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 93

was in jeopardy ; and after being in litigation before
the courts for a considerable time, was fully secured
to the Church. The congregation was reorganized in
the winter of 1872, and consisted of nineteen members.
The Rev. J. L. McCartney was called, but declined.
Not succeeding in getting a pastor, and often not
supplies, the people became discouraged and rented
the church. They lost their organization in 1875, and
a number of the members connected with other
Churches. The church property is again in dispute and
is in the hands of the Rev. John Graham of Rochester,
^ho represents the Church in the settlement of affairs.
Morpeth. There was another station at Morpeth,
about sixty miles east of Detroit and near Lake Erie.
It was visited several times, and, in the spring of
1852, the Rev. James Neill was appointed stated supply,
and remained over a year. Mr. William McClure, a
late elder in the congregation of Belle Centre, Ohio,
was the leading member, and the cause was liberally
supported for some time. By emigration and death
Covenanterism has become extinct in that part of
'Canada.

•NEW YORK.

New York City. So far as is known the first
'Covenanters settling in the city of New York were
Mr. John Agnew and his wife, who emigrated from
Ireland and settled in the city of Philadelphia in 1784,
where they resided three years.* In 1787, they

* Covenanter, Vol. 3, p. 371. Presbyterian Historical Almanac, Vol. 4, p.
251. R. P. & C, 1877, p. 294. Stone of Help, a pamphlet by Dr. J. N.
McLeod. Church Records.

194 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

removed to the city of New York, where Mr. Agnew
became a prosperous merchant and the founder of
Covenanterism in the metropoHs of America. In the
summer of 1790, when the Rev. James Reid, of Scot-
land, was making a missionary tour in America, and
when about to embark for his native land, he was
providentially introduced to Mr. Agnew, who was then
doing business in Peck's Slip, near the East river.
Mutual friends of the Covenant were highly gratified
at the discovery, and Mr. Reid preached in the house
of Mr. Agnew the following Sabbath, and baptized
two of his children. Among those who heard Mr.
Reid preach at this time was Mr. James Donaldson,,
a native of Scotland, and a worthy Covenanter. He
joined Mr. Agnew in forming a praying society, and
these meetings were regularly held until the arrival of
the Rev. James McKinney in 1793. Among those
who heard Mr. McKinney preach, was Mr. Andrew
Gifford, a Scotchman brought up in the Covenanter
Church, but now a member of the Scotch Presbyterian.
.Church under the pastoral care of the Rev. John M.
Mason. He, however, now joined the Church of his
birth, and the society held regular preaching services
in school houses and halls. In 1795, the society was
strengthened by the arrival of John Currie, James
Smith, James Nelson and David Clark. In October,.
1797, the Rev. Willliam Gibson, and some private
members, had emigrated from Ireland, some oi whom
settled in the city of Philadelphia. The Rev. William
Gibson gave one-half of his time to the congregation
of New York, and the cause began to flourish. The

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 195

first Covenanter congregation in the city of New York
was organized by the Rev. William Gibson, December
26, 1797. The first session was then constituted and
consisted of James Nelson, John Currie, John Agnew,
Andrew Gifford and David Clark. * The number of
communicants was fifteen. They were very liberal, and
paid seventy-five dollars rent annually for the occasional
use of a school house for public services. They paid
the ministers twelve dollars per Sabbath for their
services and entertained them hospitably in their
homes. The sacrament of the Lord's Supper was first
dispensed in August, 1798, in a school room on Cedar
street. Revs. James McKinney and William Gibson
conducted the services. The number of communicants^
was eighteen, six of whom were from a distance.
Mr. McKinney alluded very touchingly to the paucity
of their members, but said the number was greater
than that present in the upper room when the
Supper was first administered by our Lord. Among
the communicants were John Black, S. B. Wylie
and Alexander McLeod, students of theology.
On the following Tuesday, the Reformed Presbytery met
in "the Orchard," the country residence of Mr. John
Agnew. Here these theological students gave specimens
of improvement and had others assigned to them. In
the fall of 1800, this congregation made out a call, in
connection with Coldenham, for the services of Alex-
ander McLeod. Several matters at Coldenham having
been rectified, Mr. McLeod was ordained and installed
the first pastor of the congregation of New York, July
6, 1 801. In 1803, he resigned the Coldenham branch

196 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and devoted his whole time to the rapidly growing
congregation in New York, where he remained thirty-
two years, and until his death in February, 1833. In
1804, a frame church building was erected on Chambers
street east of Broadway. The same year the elder-
ship was increased by the election of Dr. Samuel
Guthrie, Hugh Orr and William Acheson. In 18 12,
there were one hundred and thirty-eight members, and
this year Mr. William Pattison was added to the session.
In 1 817, Thomas Cummings was made an elder. In
1818, the first church building was found to be too
small to accommodate the worshippers, and it was
taken down, and a more commodious brick structure
was erected upon the same site. Directly opposite the
church on Chambers street stood the city Alms House.
A poor widow, and a member of the Church, by the
name of Mrs. Grant Bussing, formed a class among
these poor and destitute children, and this was the first
Sabbath School established in New York city. In 18 19,
Joseph McKee and William Cowan were ordained ruling
elders, and in 1827, Robert Pattison, Hugh Galbraith,
John Brown and John W'ilson were added to the
session. At the close of the year 1827, a few members
living in the upper part of the city purchased a house
of worship formerly occupied by the Dutch Reformed
congregation of Greenwich, and, on January 11, 1828,
offered it, with all the papers, to the consistory. It
stood at the corner of Waverly Place and Grove street.
The object of this movement was to furnish preaching
to the members and others who lived far from Chambers
street. The offer, however, was opposed by the down

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 1 97

town people, who were in the majority. Notwith-
standing the opposition to the enterprize the place
was opened for public service, and Dr. McLeod and
others preached there. Over this step in the right
direction great bitterness and strife arose, and Dr.
McLeod left the scene of contention and went to
Europe for his health. The up town people applied
and secured a second and separate organization, June
II, 1830. The Presbytery made a geographical divi-
sion of the congregation, and all the members residing
above this given line were to be recognized as
members of the Second New York congregation. This
division included elders Andrew Gifford, John Brown
.and Thomas Cummings in the new organization. In
December, 1830, and soon after his arrival, Dr« McLeod
was presented with calls from both the congregations.
He decided to remain with the mother congregation,
which was the First congregation of New York. The
Second congregation then presented a call to the Rev.
Robert Gibson, who, having accepted it, was duly
installed pastor. May 31, 1831. The health of Dr.
McLeod began to fail very rapidly and he desired
the help of an associate pastor. His son, the -Rev.
John N. McLeod, was installed pastor as his father's
successor against the wishes of many of the congrega-
tion, January 14, 1833. Dr. Alexander McLeod died
February 17, 1833. At this time the New School
controversy was agitating the Church, and Rev. J. N.
McLeod, and the majority of the congregation, went
into the New School body. Mr. Gibson, who took a
prominent part in the discussions, remained true to
12

198 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

the distinctive principles of the Covenanter Church. Of
the eldership, Andrew Gifford, John Brown and Thomas
Cummings, with their families and connections, of the
Second congregation, also went into the New School
body. This left the congregation in a distressing con-
dition, as those departing were the main support of the
cause. The faithful remnant, however, retained the
church property and continued their services. As the
members were generally poor and laboring people, Mr.
Gibson was compelled to add to his ministerial work
the additional labor of teaching a classical school in
order to sustain himself and family. Notwithstanding
the poverty of his devoted flock, they maintained the
cause, and also furnished means to send Mr. Gibson
to Europe, in the spring of 1837, for his health. He
returned to New York the same fall not much im-
proved, appeared but once in the pulpit, and died of
consumption, December 22, 1837. As the majority of
the First congregation had gone into the New School
organization, it involved a long law suit for the
property, which terminated after reaching the Court of
Errors by a compromise. Soon after this the faithful
remnant of the First congregation purchased a church
in Sullivan street, and Rev. James Christie, D. D., was
installed pastor, November 16, 1836, and remained in
charge twenty years. The elders of the First con-
gregation then were William Acheson, John Greacen,
John Culbert, James McFarland, Andrew Bowden, John
Brown, John Carothers and James C. Ramsey. The
Rev. Andrew Stevenson was ordained and installed the
pastor of the Second congregation, November 14, 1839,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 199

who remained in charge until May, 1875, and emeritus
pastor until his death, June, 1881. When he became
the pastor in 1839, there were nearly two hundred
members and an efficient session, but the congrega-
tion was heavily in debt, possessed an uncomfortable
church building, and the members were very poor.
In August, 1 841, James Wylie, John Kennedy and
James Wiggins were added to the eldership. In 1845,
there were three hundred and nineteen members. In
1846, the deacon controversy arose and seriously
effected this congregation. A division of sentiment
was prevalent as to the lawfulness of the management
of the temporalities, and the Presbytery, failing to
amicably settle the question or reconcile the parties,
granted a new organization. The church property was
sold at auction in January, 1848, and equally divided
between the two parties. The Third congregation of
New York was then organized, March 14, 1848, with
nearly two hundred members. An arrangement was
made by which the new congregation worshipped in
the old church on Waverly Place, while the Second
congregation rented the lecture room of the Presby-
terian Church at the corner of Waverly Place and
Hammond street, and soon afterwards erected a large
church on Eleventh "street near Sixth Avenue. The
Rev. John Little was installed pastor of the Third con-
gregation in June, 1849. He was suspended in April,
1852, for preaching doctrines subversive to the prin-
ciples of the Covenanter Church. The Rev. J. R. W.
Sloane was installed the pastor in 1856. The same
year the Rev. Dr. Christie resigned the First congrega-

200 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

tion to accept the chair of Theology in the Allegheny
Seminary. The Rev. J. C. K. Milligan was installed as
his successor in the spring of 1858, and is still in
charge. The Third church, on Twenty-Third street, was
erected in i860. In 1868, Dr. Sloane resigned the
charge of the Third church and accepted the chair of
Theology in the Allegheny Seminary. In 1869, a
division occurred in the Third congregation, and the
Fourth congregation of New York was organized,
February 21, 1870. The Rev. David Gregg was in-
stalled pastor of the Third congregation, February 23,
1870. The Rev. James Kennedy was ins^talled pastor
of the Fourth congregation, November 13, 1870, and is
now in charge. The First congregation had, some
years previously, bought a church from the United Pres-
byterian brethren, many of whom connected with the
Covenanter Church, on Twenty-Eighth street near Ninth
Avenue. The Fourth congregation secured a large and
commodious church in Forty-Eighth street near Eighth
Avenue in 1873, which is their present place of
worship. In 1875, the Rev. Andrew Stevenson was
retired as emeritus pastor of the Second congregation,
and the Rev. Robert M. Sommerville was installed the
pastor, and is now in charge. They sold their church
in Eleventh street and purchased a Jewish Synagogue
of magnificent architecture in Thirty-Ninth street near
Sixth Avenue, which is the present imposing church
building of the congregation. The Third church was
burned, February 17, 1878, and immediately rebuilt.
In January, 1887, the Rev. David Gregg left the
communion of the Church, and as his successor the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 20I

Rev. Finley M. Foster was installed pastor of the
Third congregation, September 7, 1887. The First
congregation sold their church in Twenty-Eighth street
in 1883, and for nearly four years worshipped in
Trenor Hall, corner of Broadway and Thirty-Second
street. In 1887, they erected a large and well ap-
pointed church in Harlem, in One Hundred and
Nineteenth street near Fifth Avenue, where they are
now worshipping in one of the handsomest churches in
the body. The Covenanters of New York are an
energetic and liberal people, and are nearly one
thousand in numbe/. The First congregation was
organized December 26, 1797 ; the present church
building is on One Hundred and Nineteenth street,
near Fifth Avenue, Harlem, and the pastor is the
Rev. J. C. K. Milligan. Members recorded are Andrew
Acheson, William Acheson, William Sterritt, John
Culbert, William Cowan, John Greacen, James C.
Ramsey, Joseph Thomson, Andrew Bowden, Matthew
Bowden, John W. Bowden, Charles Gillespie, John
Nightingale, Hamilton Biggam, John Whitehead, C. B.
French, James Thomson, Robert Bowden, John Lynch,
John Angus, John Carothers, William Fleming.
William Hazlett, E. N. Shields, William Law, James
Bell, Thomas Rusk, W. J. Cromie, David Henderson,
James Cowan, Frederick E. Milligan, W. J. Clyde,
Alexander Livingstone, David Bell, John McFarland,
Robert Smith, Edward McLean, J. C. Milligan. The
Second congregation was organized June 11, 1830;;
the present church building is on Thirty-Ninth street
near Sixth Avenue, and the pastor is the Rev. Robert

202 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

M. Sommerville. Of old members are James Wylie,
John S. Walker, Joseph Wiggins, James Wiggins, John
Kennedy, Jacob A. Long, Joseph Torrens, David
Torrens, Melancthon W. Bartley, Andrew Alexander,
Samuel Miller, Henry O'Neil, Samuel K. McGuire,
Matthew Miller, James Warnock, Thomas E. Greacen,
William McCullough, William McLean, John Taylor,
John J. McKay, Robert McCracken, Francis L. Walker,
John Sharpe, W. H. Cochran, John Aikin, William
Park, Hugh McCreery, J. J. Montgomery, James Dunlap,
Thompson O'Neil, John Adams. The TJiird congrega-
tion was organized March 14, 1848 ; the present
church building is on Twenty-Third street near Eighth
Avenue, and the pastor is the Rev. Finley M. Foster.
Of the membership are named William Neely, Walter
T. Miller, A. J. Echols, Andrew Knox, John Mc-
William, Alexander McNeil, Thomas Bell, Hugh Glassford,
James Carlisle, Andrew C. Bowden, Robert Cairns,
Hugh Young, William Brown. The FourtJi congrega-
tion was organized February 21, 1870 ; the present
church building is on Forty-Eighth street near Eighth
Avenue, and the pastor is the Rev. James Kennedy.
Of the principal membership are named Hugh O'Neil,
Edward H. Pollock, John Kennedy, Hugh Thomas,
Hugh Carlisle, Dr. Samuel Murtland, William McAfee,
Robert McAfee, Hugh Getty, Robert Leishman, Dr. J.
M. Harvey, David Houston, James Fischer, James
Dunlap, David Donneghy, George Kennedy, Robert
Kennedy, William Kilpatrick, Dr. W. C. Kennedy,
James Bryans, William Pollock, Samuel Stevenson.
Evangelistic work has been done among all the con-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 203

gregations by Mr. James M. McElhinney, and his efforts
have been crowned with fruitful results.

Brooklyn. An organization was granted to the
■Covenanters residing in the city of Brooklyn, June 15,
1857. A comfortable church •building was purchased
in an eligible location, but the property was so heavily
mortgaged that the small congregation found themselves
unable to retain it.* The second property which they
bought was located at the corner of Fayette Avenue
and Ryerson street. It was primarily built for a chapel
or Sabbath School room, and the church proper was
never built. The Rev. James M. Dickson was the
first pastor installed in November, 1857. He preached
with great acceptance for five years and joined the
Presbyterian Church. In the winter of 1864, the Rev.
John H. Boggs was installed pastor. After a pastorate
of sixteen years, he followed the example of his
predecessor and went into the Presbyterian Church in
1880. Quite a number of influential members followed
him, and are now found in the various Churches of
Brooklyn. Mr. T. A. H. Wylie supplied the pulpit
for nearly a year. In the winter of 1881, the Rev.
S. J. Crowe was installed the pastor, and remained
three years. During his pastorate the congregation
not only increased in numbers, but in unity and
liberality. In 1883, the present commodious church
and chapel, situated at the corner of Willoughby and
Tompkins Avenues, were purchased. They were erected
for Miss Anna Oliver, a Methodist preacher, whose
efforts to build up a congregation under her own

* Banner, 1883, p. 309.

2D4 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

ministry signally failed. Mr. Crowe resigned in the
fall of 1884, on account of the state of his health..
Rev. John F. Carson, the present pastor, was ordained
and installed, May 20, 1885. The congregation and
Sabbath School have greatly increased in numbers,,
and the Church has a very prosperous following.
Among the members are named James A. Patterson,.
William F. Bell, Francis Culbert, James Hughes, R. J.
Culbert, Thomas Kinkead, M. M. Henry, Henry Fergu-
son, John Shannon, James Warnock, John Boyd, Jame.s-
Frazer, John \V. Pritchard, Thomas Moore, Robert
Taylor, Leatham Teaz, James Williams. Alexander
Frazer, James Hunter, Dr. Palmer.

Newburgh. The city of Newburgh is pleasantly
situated in one of the picturesque regions of the famous
Hudson river, sixty miles above the city of New York.
It was the headquarters of General Washington for
some time during the Revolutionary War,^ and where
the American army was disbanded after national inde-
pendence had been achieved from Great Britain.'' The
first family of Covenanters settling in this city was
that of Mr. Josiah Gailey, in 1787. In 1793, Mr.
Thomas Johnston joined him, and they held society
meetings until Mr. Johnston removed into the neighbor-
ing vicinity of St. Andrews. In 1802, James Clarke
emigrated from Scotland, with some of his connections,
and in the fall of that year, the first Covenanter
society in Newburgh w^as organized. The leading
members were Josiah Gailey, Robert Johnston, James
Clarke and John Curry. The society was soon

* Covettanter, Vol. i, p. 373. Banner, 1876, p. 121. Ji. P. &- C, 1885, p. 148.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 205.

strengthened by the accessions of James King and
James Robb. For many years, and until the organization
in 18 1 7, the society met at the house of Mr. James-
Clarke, and afterwards at the house of Mrs. Gillespie,
an aged disciple. The society was a part of the
Coldenham congregation, and, in 1817, received one-
fifth of the time of the Rev. James R. Willson, D. D.
In tBio, Samuel Jameson joined them, and, in 181 1,.
they were much encouraged by the arrival of the
families of William McCullough, James Orr, John
Lawson, William Barclay, Sr., James Barclay, John
Barclay and William Barclay, Jr. The Rev. James
Milligan, pastor at Coldenham, occasionally supplied
them and preached in the Academy. Infidelity had
a strong hold in the village, but began to disappear
before the tide of Reformation principles and practices.
In 1 8 19, this growing society erected a church build-
ing, and Dr. Willson was secured for one-half of his
time. His eloquence and public spirit attracted many
to wait upon his ministrations, and Presbyterianism took '
a deep hold upon the people. In 1824, having increased
to eighty-six members, Newburgh obtained a separate
organization from Coldenham. The elders at this time
were James Clarke, John Lawson and Samuel Wright,
all of whom had been elders in the Coldenham con-
gregation. In 1825, William Thompson and William'
M, Wylie were chosen deacons, and the former soon:
afterwards was added to the session. On September 16,.
1825, the ' Rev. James R. Johnston was ordained and
installed the first pastor of the congregation of New-
burgh. Mr. Johnston was a popular preacher. He

206 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

remained four years and then connected with the
Presbyterian Church. Rev. Moses Roney was installed
pastor, June 8, 1830, and remained eighteen years,
until his health demanded his release in 1848. During
his pastorate the elders were Matthew Duke, William
Thompson, David T. Cavin, William Brown and David
Stewart. The deacons were Edward Weir, John Little
and John Lawson. Other names worthy of perpetuation
are those of Kirkpatrick, Fleming, Ramsey, Wiseman
^nd Stewart. In the fall of 1849, the Rev. Samuel
Carlisle was installed pastor, and continued in this
relationship for thirty-eight years, and until his sad
death, by paralysis, in the summer of 1887. In the
winter of 1854, a Second Congregation was organized.
They worshipped one year in the Court House, and
then erected a neat church building. In the winter of
1855, the Rev. James R. Thompson, son of elder
William Thompson, was ordained and installed pastor,
and is the present incumbent. The first church of the
First congregation was rebuilt in 1877, and stands in
a favorable location on Grand street. The Secynd
church is in a beautiful spot on the same street and
a few squares away. Among the early members of the
Second church are the names. of Little, Lawson, Hilton,
Cameron, Boyne, Fleming, Wilson and Young. Among
the members of the First congregation have been
William McCuUough, J. W. McCullough, William Hilton,
John Hilton, John F. Beattie, Robert Campbell,
Alexander Wright, William Willson, William Lynn,
William Brown. Of the members of the Second con-
:gregation have been William Thompson, James Frazer,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 20/

John Frazer, John Magee, Andrew Little, John T. .
Brown, James Jamison, John Burnett, John K. Lawson,
Francis Willson, Isaac Cochran, WiUiam Johnston,
R. M. McAllister, W. B. Hall, Robert Hilton.

CoLDENHAM. The settlement of Covenanters upon
the Wallkill, in Orange County, was the first of this
Church in the State of New York, and began about
1748. The location is one distinguished for grazing
and the products of the dairy, and is some nine miles
west of the city of Newburgh on the Hudson river.*
In the year 1748, the family of Mr. James Rainey
removed from the city of Philadelphia and settled a
little beyond the Wallkill river. Here he continued
to stand aloof from communion with other denomina-
tions, ■ and consequently was deprived of public ordi-
nances for several years. In 1753, two other families
joined him, and a praying society was formed. In
September, 1759, the Rev. John Cuthbertson made his
first missionary tour to the Wallkill people, and preached
in this vicinity three or four weeks. On September
20, 1759, he constituted a session, t and baptized
Susannah and David, children of James Rainey ; Mary
and Archy, children of Archy McBride ; Daniel and
Jean, children of William Wilkins ; John, Helen and
Agnes, children of John Gilchrist. In August, 1764,
Mr. Cuthbertson, accompanied by elder Phineas White-
side, of Pequea, Pennsylvania, visited the society again,
and preached and baptized some children. During the
year 1766, he again visited the Wallkillians when they
had grown to a considerable society. In the fall 1769,

* Covenanter, Vol. i, p. 283. f Cuthbertson's Diary.

208 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

he made his fourth visit to these worthy and staunch
Covenanters, and the most noted heads of the families-
were James Rainey, John Gilchrist, Archy McBride,.
James Thomson. William Wilkins, James McCord, John
Archibald and Henry Trapp. Mr. Cuthbertson ordained
James Rainey and William Wilkins ruling elders,.
October 29, 1769. This pioneer missionary visited the
Wallkill society also in September, 1774, in October,.
1775, and in November, 1779. On this latter visit he
called upon the Rev. Mr. Annan of the Associate
Church, and had much friendly intercourse with him,,
and he and Mr. Cuthbertson soon afterwards effected
a union forming the Associate Reformed Church in
1782. At this coalescence the whole Wallkill Cove-
nanter society went into the new body, except Mr.
David Rainey, son of the late elder James Rainey.
Covenanterism was now about extinct in this fertile
valley, and they continued in this distressing condition
for a number of years. All honor is due James
Rainey for establishing, and David Rainey, his son,,
for maintaining, Covenanterism in Orange County. In.
the year 1790, the Rev. James Reid, missionary from
Scotland, preached a few Sabbaths to the people^
Soon after Mr. Robert Johnston joined Mr. Rainey,
and they kept up a society meeting between the two
families. In 1793, the Rev. James McKinney visited
them, and found these two men loyal to Reformation
principles. Mr. Robert Beattie acceded to the Cove-
nanter Society in 1795, from the Associate Reformed
Church. He was a remarkably generous and public
spirited man, and entertained all the ministers and the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2O9

families coming from a distance to worship. The cause
again began to flourish, and they became a consider-
able society occasionally visited by Revs. James
McKinney and William Gibson. The congregation was
regularly organized by direction of the Reformed Presby-
tery, August, 1798, by the election and ordination of
David Rainey and Robert Beattie, ruling elders. In
June, 1799, the Reformed Presbytery met in the barn of
Robert Beattie, and John Black, Thomas Donnelly,
Alexander McLeod and Samuel B. Wylie were licensed
to preach the gospel. This same year the first church
building was erected on the plot of ground now occupied
by the church of the Coldenham congregation, and was
removed in 1838, to make room for the present edifice.
At the meeting of the Reformed Presbytery held at
Little Britain, November 7, 1800, a call was entertained
from the united congregations of New York City and
Wallkill.* It was found that an equal number of
votes was cast for Samuel B. Wylie and Alexander
McLeod. Mr. Wylie renounced all further connection
with the call, and informed the court to take measures
accordingly. The court then agreed to address those
persons who had voted for Mr. Wylie, whether' they
would be willing to append their names to the call for
Mr. McLeod. To this they willingly assented, and the
call was modified by appending the names of all the
electors to the call on Mr. McLeod, and it was presented
by the Moderator for his acceptance. Mr. McLeod
hesitated, and requested another day to consider the
matter. A^ter some reasoning with him, Mr. McLeod

* Minutes of Reformed Presbytery.

2IO HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

consented to accept the call only conditionally. One con-
dition was that those holding slaves and who had signed
the call, should be required to free them and have no
more to do with the sinful institution of slavery. Agree-
ing to this, Mr. McLeod then accepted the call, with the
other condition that three years thereafter he was at liberty
to accept of either one of the congregations or none,
as he thought proper. This the court agreed to, and
he gave his pieces as trials for ordination, and was duly
installed pastor of the united congregations of Wallkill
and New York City, July 6. 1801. The salary and divi-
sion of time were as follows : Nezv York, thirty-one days-
in the year at eleven dollars per day ; Wallkill, twenty-
one days in the }'ear at seven dollars per day ; making
the whole salary $488 per annum. In 1803, Mr. McLeod
resigned the Wallkill branch to give his whole time tO'
the rapidly growing congregation of New York. In.
1807, a call was presented to Mr. James R. Willson,.
licentiate, but he declined it. In 1808, Mr. Gilbert
McMaster was called, and declined. For several years
they enjoyed almost constant supplies, but failed to obtain-
a pastor. In 1812, the Rev. James Milligan was installed
pastor, and labored among them for five years, and left
them in a good condition in 18 17, when he removed to
Vermont. Rev. James R. Willson was again called, and
having accepted, was installed pastor in August, 181 7.
At this time there were about seventy members, with
societies in Newburgh and beyond the Wallkill river.
The congregation was now called Coldenham. At first
Mr. Willson gave the Newburgh people on^-fifth of his
time, subsequently one-half, and in 1824, the}- became

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2T I

a separate organization and he remained at Coldenham
until his resignation in 1830, when he removed to
Albany. Dr. Willson returned to the pastorate of the
Coldenham congregation in the fall of 1833, and remained
in this relation seven years. In 1836, he was appointed
professor of Theology in the Eastern Seminary located at
Coldenham, and also conducted an Academy, where many
of the ministers received their early education. Dr.
Willson resigned the charge in 1840, and accepted a
professorate in the Allegheny Theological Seminary.
For four years Coldenham was a vacancy. In May,
1844, the Rev. James W. Shaw became the pastor. At
this time there were nearly one hundred members and
six praying societies. The elders were John Beattie,.
James Beattie, Samuel Arnott, William Elder and
Daniel Wilkins. Mr. Shaw spent his whole pastoral
life of thirty-eight years among these people, and
resigned in 1882, on account of failing health. Several
calls were made upon young men, but by them declined.
In the spring of 1884, the Rev. Robert H. McCready
became the pastor and is now in charge. He resus-
citated the cause, inspired the members with new zeal,
repaired and refurnished the church, and by no means
does it look as if Covenanterism will soon become
extinct in Coldenham or Orange County. Among the
old members are David Rainey, Adam Rainey, James
Clark, William Beattie, John Beattie, Israel O. Beattie,
Dr. Charles Fowler, Edward T. Bradner, Matthew Park,
William Park, James Thomson, David Elliot, Jephtha
Williams, Samuel Arnott, Samuel Wright, William Shaw,
William J. Shaw, Francis Wallace, J. Morrison, Natha-

212 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

niel Fleming, M. Roney Fleming, William Fleming,
Reuben Frazer, John Cochran, Robert Fleming.

Argyle. This settlement of Covenanters is now
known as the congregation of West Hebron, Wash-
ington County, New York. It is east of the city of
Albany and near the Vermont line. It is probable
the first Covenanters settled in this vicinity, and that
of Cambridge, as early as 1755, but as to their names
.and numbers nothing is definitely known. The Rev.
John Cuthbertson first visited them in August, 1764,
and preached at the house of Mr. Ephraim Cowan.
He baptized Edward, son of William Selfridge ; and
Martha, daughter of Oliver Selfridge. From the amount
■ of visiting he did in this neighborhood, it is probable
there was quite a respectable society. In 1766, Mr.
-Cuthbertson visited them again and passed over into
Vermont and New Hampshire. On his third tour in
1769, Mr. Cuthbertson constituted a session, and William
:Selfridge and John McClung were ordained ruling
•elders, October 22, 1769. He also spent some time in
visiting among the people in September, 1774, in Octo-
ber, 1775, and in November, 1779. The principal
members at this time were Ephraim Cowan, Samuel
Clark, William Selfridge, Oliver Selfridge, John McClung
and Phineas Whiteside. The latter had some time
previously removed from Pequea, Pennsylvania. The
organization continued for over fifty years without a
settled pastor. In August, 1825, a call was made upon
the Rev. James W. Stewart, which, being accepted, he
was duly ordained and installed the first pastor of the
Argyle congregation, October 13, 1825. The small con-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 213

gregation was poor in this world's goods, and it had
great difficulty in raising the meagre salary.* Pews
were auctioned off to the highest bidder, and often the
pastor had to forgive a portion of the stipends in order
to secure the remainder. Soon the little congregation
was rent into factions as the New School controversy
agitated the Church, and for sundry reasons Mr. Stewart
was released from the charge in April, 1832. At a
meeting of the session held November 15, 1832, and
the last in »which Mr. Stewart moderated, a petition
was prepared and ordered to be forwarded to Synod,
requesting that court to take the congregation from
under the care of the Northren Presbytery and place it
under the Western. Against this action elders William
Shaw and Samuel Jackson protested, and these were
the only members of session who adhered to the prin-
ciples of the Church at the division of 1833. The
whole congregation went with Mr. Stewart into the
New School body. They held the church building, and
after running it in debt for supplies, sold it back to
the few faithful Covenanters who held the Testimony
intact. Less than a half dozen Covenanters resorted to
the praying societies, and occasionally enjoyed a day's
preaching. In May, 1862, one of these elders died,
and Argyle lost its organization. They embraced an
opportunity to sell the old church at Argyle and bought
the present church property near the village of West
Hebron. The New York Presbytery re-organized them
as the West Hebron congregation in August, 1866.
Fourteen members were found in regular standing and
* From notes by Rev. J. A. Speer.

214 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

thirteen others united by profession of faith. They
liberally supported the gospel, repeated their call for a
pastor nearly every year, and trusted that in due time
the Lord would send them an under-shepherd. In this
they were not disappointed. The Lord heard their
prayers and gave them a pastor. The Rev. James A.
Speer was duly ordained and installed, July 28, 1875.
and was the only pastor since 1832. He is now in
charge. The congregation now . owns a substantial and
comfortable church property free from de4Dt. For over
fifty years previous to 1825, and for forty-three years
since 1832, these people maintained the unpopular
principles of the Covenanter Church without a pastor
with a heroism and faithfulness without a parallel in
history. Some of the old members of Argyle are Dr.
David Lister, Eli Gifford, James Shaw, William Shaw,
Henry Mehaffay, Alexander Mehaffay, James Stewart,
John McQueen, John Selfridge, William Dennison,
George' Keys, John McNeil, James F. Mehaffay, John
Dennison, Samuel Jackson.

Troy. This city contained a society of Covenanters
as early as 181 8, and was visited with supplies with
LaNSINGBURGH in Rensselaer County. Dr. Christie of
Albany frequently preached here, and Troy and Lansing-
burgh were given an organization in 1828. Rev. Robert
McKee was the first and only pastor, installed in 1830.
In 1835, he connected with the Presbyterian Church.
These places were supplied with preaching by Presby-
tery until 1848, when the field was abandoned. Peter
McKinnon and Robert Campbell were elders.

Albany. Covenanters resided in the city of Albany
as early as 1760. In August, 1764, the Rev. John

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 21$

Cuthbertson came to this city from Wallkill, Oran^^e
County, and preached. He also visited the city in
1766 and 1769. He usually preached at the house of
Mr. John Boyd,* with whom he lodged while remain-
ing in the city. In the latter part of the past cen-
tury supplies were given by the Revs. James McKinney
and William Gibson, and, after the formation of the
Reformed Presbytery, by other ministers. The society
was organized into a congregation in 181 5. The first
pastor was the Rev. James Christie, D. D., who was
settled in this city in the spring of 1822. He also
conducted a Grammar School in connection with his
ministerial duties, and was regarded as a preacher
and educator of considerable influence in Albany. The
church stood in Waterloo street. Dr. Christie demitted
the charge in 1830. The people were not long in
securing a pastor, for the Rev. James R. Willson,
D. D., was installed the same fall. Here was a field for
the display of his great powers as a preacher and
writer, and he at once inaugurated a battle against
the wickedness of the city and the ungodliness of the
State legislature. In the fall of 1833, Dr. Willson
resigned the charge and returned to Coldenham. For
three years the small, but active, congregation was in
a distressed" condition. In the spring of 1836, the
Rev. David Scott was installed pastor and remained
in this capacity six years. He demitted the charge in
the spring of 1842, for the people were not able to
sustain a pastor of his ability and keep up the other
expenses of the congregation. The field was supplied

*Cuthbertson's Diary.

2 1 6, HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

with preaching for many years, but gradually by emi-
gration and death, Covenanterism has become extinct
in' Albany. The family of the great Rev. James
McKinney lived and died in this city, and other
members were Robert Trumbull, M. J. Johnston, Samuel
Graham, Robert Campbell and James Frazer.

Mohawk Valley. This is one of the richest and
most beautiful valleys in the State of New York. Lying
a few miles west of the city of Albany and along the
picturesque Mohawk river, are the towns of SCHE-
NECTADY, DuANESBURGH and Princetown. About
1780, a few families from the Highlands of Scotland
settled in this vicinity, and also in the neighborhood
of Galway, Mn.TON and Broad Albin. Not far
distant were the flourishing societies of Galloway,
CURRIESBUSH and Johnstown. These Scotch people
organized themselves into praying societies, and awaited
God's time to send them a preacher. No religious
society ever embraced a creed with more intelligence,
and maintained it with more faithfulness, than these
unsophisticated Scotchmen accepted the principles of
the Covenanter Church.'^ In 1793, the Rev. James
McKinney came among them and preached alternately
in all the societies for about five years. In 1798, his
labors were mostly confined to the Duanesburgh and
Galway congregations, although he exercised a super-
intending control over all the societies on either side
of the Mohawk. The elders at Duanesburgh were
Walter Maxwell, Robert Liddle, John Cullings and
George Dugyid. Among other leading and influential
* Memoir of Dr. A. McLeod.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2:/

members were the families of Andrew McMillan, Alex-
ander Glen, John Burns, Robert Spier, Hugh Ross and
James Dunse. It is said, moreover, that the families
of Andrew McMillan and James Dunse were the only
ones in Duanesburgh who held the principles of the
Covenanter Church previous to the arrival of the Rev.
James McKinney in 1793, but the others soon after-
wards embraced them under his eloquent and persua-
sive presentation of truth.* Mr. McKinney first preached
in the old stone church near Princetown, erected by
the community but under the control of the Presby-
terian Church. He resigned this charge in the spring
of 1802, and removed to South Carolina. The first
church building erected in Duanesburgh was in 1804.
The lot was given by Hon. Judge Duane, and a lot
for the parsonage was donated by his daughter. The
parsonage was not built until 1829. In the fall of
1807-, the united congregations of Duanesburgh and
Galway called the Rev. S. B, Wylie, who declined it.
In the spring of 1808, the Rev. Gilbert McMaster was
called. He accepted, and was duly ordained and in-
stalled August 8, 1808. The salary promised Mr.
McMaster amounted to twelve hundred and fifty dollars
a year and a parsonage. The number of commu-
nicants at Duanesburgh was fifty-four. They were an
opulent and liberal people. Besides those mentioned
previously were the families of William Turnbull, Daniel
Stewart, John McCollum, Alexander Liddle, Alexander
McFarlan, James McBean, John McClumpha, Charles;
Tulloch, James Ingersoll, George Turnbull, James Young
* Sermon by Rev. S. M. Ramsey, Duanesburgh, 1876.

2l8 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and Thomas Hays. In 1818, Dr. McMaster resigned
the Galway branch and devoted his whole time to the
flourishing congregation of Duanesburgh. The first
deacons were elected in 18 18, and were John Tulloch,
John Liddle, James Maxwell, Thomas Kelly and
William Cummings. At the division of the Church in
1833, the large majority of the congregation went with
their pastor into the New School body. The minority
soon emigrated to other parts of the Church and re-
united with their brethren.

Schenectady was practically a part of the Duanes-
burgh congregation until its separate organization in
1 83 1. Rev. John McMaster was installed pastor, January
25, 1832, and the following year, he, and the great
majority of the congregation, went into the New School
body, and in a few years afterwards the cause declined
and finally died out in this learned city. Among the
leading members at Schenectady were John Anderson,
William Cunningham, Robert J. Brown and James
Logan.

Galway was a good congregation connected with
Duanesburgh until 1818. It was located in Saratoga
County, and attached to it were the congregations of
Milton and Broad Albin, in the neighboring County
of Fulton. Among the families here were those of
McKinley, Adams, Rodgers, Guthrie, Williams, Wilson,
Dannon, McQueen, and others. In the fall of 1821,
the Rev. Samuel M. Willson was installed the first
pastor, and remained among these worthy people six
years. In 1829, the Rev. John N. McLeod became
the pastor, and held this charge three years, and

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 219

removed to New York City. In April, 1833, the Rev.
Algernon S. McMaster was installed, and in a few
months afterwards he and many of the congregation
identified themselves with the New School body. The
faithful remnant were reorganized, and, in 1835, called
Mr. Francis Gailey, licentiate, but he declined. It was
regarded as a mission station until recent years. A
small congregation of Covenanters was organized in
the city of Utica, Oneida County, in the fall of 1837,
and also at New Hartford, same County, at the
same time. These congregations were supplied by
Dr. W. L. Roberts, David Scott, and others, for
several years, but were finally abandoned. There was
also a small society organized at MiLFORD, Otsego
County, but it never flourished and received little
or no attention.

KORTRIGHT. This congregation is situated in the
north-eastern part of Delaware County. It was settled
in the early part of the present century by emigrants
from Scotland. It was long a preaching station and
probably received its regular organization as a con-
gregation in 1 8 14. In 1820, the Rev. Melancthon B.
Williams became the pastor, and remained about ten
years. He built up a good congregation of honest
tillers of the soil, who afterwards engaged extensively
in the dairy business. Mr. James Douglas preached
frequently to them, and Mr. Francis Gailey was called
to be their pastor. They were a great many years
without a pastor, and owe much to the fidelity of
elder Robert Spence for the maintenance of the cause
during the New School controversy. The Rev. Samuel

220 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

M. Willson was installed pastor in the fall of 1845,.
and remained until his death in 1864. In 1866, the
Rev. John O. Bayles, the present pastor, was installed.
Among some of the old and leading members at
Kortright have been George Spence, David Orr,
William McCracken, Robert S. Orr, James Spence,
Joseph Spence, Samuel Mehaffay, Andrew S. Gilchrist,
Andrew McNeely, J. W. Kelso, Seth Kelso, Henry
L. Orr, James H. McLowry, Robert Henderson.

BOVINA. This was settled about the same time as
Kortright, by Scotchmen, and is situated some fifteen
miles west of Kortright and at the headwaters of the
Delaware river. It was a preaching station supplied
for many years, and organized into a congregation in
1 8 14. In 1820, it was under the pastoral care of the
Rev. Melancthon B. Williams, who was released from
them in 1823. In 1825, they invited Mr. James Douglas
of New York, who had been licensed in Scotland, to
preach to them. This he did for six years, and, in
183 1, received ordination from the True Dutch
Reformed Church and continued to minister to the
people of Bovina until 1847, ^vhen he was restored,
his ordination deemed valid, and he was regularly
installed pastor of the congregation. Mr. Douglas died
in 1857, and for four years they were vacant. The
old stone church built in 1825, was now abandoned,
and a new one built in the village of Brushland.
Rev. James T. Pollock became the pastor in 1861,
and, after three years of service, connected with another
denomination. In January, 1865, the Rev. Joshua
Kennedy was installed, and remained with these worthy

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 22 F

people twenty years, when his health failed, and he
resigned in the spring of 1885. The Rev. O. Brown
Milligan was installed pastor in June, 1887; the church
building was refurnished, and under most favorable
circumstances the congregation continues its work of
saving souls. Some of the old members are Andrew
Thomson, William Telford, Daniel Arbuckle, Patrick
Sanderson, James Miller, James Russell, James H.
Thomson, William Thomson, James Thomson, James R.
Douglas, James Dean, John Campbell, David B. Russell,
Andrew T. Russell, Andrew Thomson, Jr., A. S. Gilchrist.
Walton. This is a live young city, and the largest
town in Delaware County. In this vicinity Francis
Gailey made some disciples in early times. A few
families lived in this community and held their mem-
bership in the Bovina congregation until the spring of
1 86 1, when they received a separate organization. In
1863, the Rev. David McAllister was ordained and
installed the first pastor. He resigned in 1871, and
accepted an appointment of Synod to labor in the
interests of the National Reform Association, and the
congregation was vacant four years. Mr. McAllister
was re-installed pastor in 1875, and again released in the
fall of 1883, to teach in Geneva College. Rev. Samuel
G. Shaw, the present pastor, was ordained and installed
in the summer of 1884. In 1874, the old church in
the country was abandoned, and a large and com-
modious building of more modern architecture was
erected in the town of Walton. The congregation is-
in a healthy condition. Among the representative men
of Walton have been D. G. McDonald, R. F. McGibbin,.

^22 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Henry Easson, James Alexander, Robert Jameson,
Calvin McAllister, T. H. Thompson, J. E. Arbuckle,
Smith St. John, A. J. Easson.

Not far from the town of Walton was the society of
Colchester, in a mining district. This was cultivated
by Dr. Joshua Kennedy in connection with Bovina,
and at one time contained about twenty-five members.

White Lake. South of Delaware County and
between the Delaware and Hudson rivers is the con-
gregation of White Lake, in the centre of Sullivan
County. These people are living amid silver streams
and placid lakes, the resort of many a weary New
Yorker in the heated season. It is not definitely
known at what time the first Covenanter^ settled in
this region, but it was early in the present century.
In 1820, the Rev. Melancthon B. Williams preached
here as a part of his charge. For about twenty-five
years they were a vacancy, and some made defection in
1833. They enjoyed supplies until 1850, when the Rev.
John B. Williams, the present pastor, was ordained and
installed in charge. Mr. Williams has been an untiring
worker and has been a power for good in this com-
munity. Among the old families of White Lake have
been those of William Pattison, WiUiam Stewart, John
Tacey, John McClure, Joseph Forsythe, Robert Alex-
ander, David McAllister, Clark Brown, James Frazer,
Jacob Dubois.

Syracuse. About the year 1840, a few families of
Covenanters found a home in this city, to whose
spiritual wants the Revs. W. L. Roberts, John Fisher,
David Scott, and others, ministered quite frequently.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 223

The little society grew in numbers and faith until
they received an organization in the fall of 1849. In
the spring of 185 1, they succeeded in obtaining the
Rev. John Newell for a pastor. He remained but two
years, and in 1854, they lost their organization. They
were re-organized in 1858, and in the spring of 1859,
they again beheld their teacher in the person of the
Rev. Josiah M. Johnston. He remained in charge seven
years, a part of which time he was engaged in
mission work in the South. In 1867, the Rev. John
M. Armour became the pastor, and remained six years.
In the winter of 1874, the Rev. Samuel R. Wallace,
the present pastor, was installed. The church building
was erected in 1852, and is a comfortable house of
worship. The Covenanters in the city of Syracuse
have never been numerous or wealthy, but they have
maintained the principles of the Church in a manner
which deserves commendation. Of the old families at
Syracuse have been those of John McClure, James
McClure, Solomon Spier, John Service, William J. Park,
William Cannon, James Cannon, Hugh Scott.

Rochester. This city was frequently visited, pre-
vious to 1830, by Dr. W. L. Roberts who preached
to a few families who had removed hither. The con-
gregation was organized in the summer of 1831, and
the Rev. John Fisher, of York, was in charge for
four years. In the spring of 1837, the Rev. Charles
B. McKee became the pastor, and also conducted
a flourishing classical school. He was released from
this charge in the summer of 1842. In the summer
of 1844, the Rev. David Scott, who had often supplied

224 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

the congregation, became the pastor and remained
until the summer of 1862. In the spring of 1863, the
Rev. Robert D. Sproull was installed pastor, and was
released in October, 1880, when he left the com-
munion of the Church. In the spring of 1881. the
Rev. John Graham was ordained and installed in charge,
and is the present efficient pastor. Recently the old
church on North Union street was sold, and a beauti-
ful and convenient church on Alexander street was
purchased and refitted for worship. Rochester has had
some worthy members, of whom have been Angus
McLeod, John Campbell, Hugh Mulholland, James
Edmonds, Robert Knowls, David Dorn, Samuel Gormley,
Robert Kyle, David Logan, James Montgomery, Robert
Willson, William Marshall, James Campbell, Hugh
Robinson, Hugh McGowan, Robert Alton, James Alton,
Abraham Ernissee, Thomas S. Linn, Joseph B. Robin-
son. James Keers, Thomas Logan, Simon Cameron,
John Boyd, Thomas Percy, James S. Peoples.

Buffalo. A few families of Covenanters residing in
this city were supplied with preaching for some time,
and organized into a congregation in 1838. They
made out several calls but none were accepted. They
continued steadfast in their endeavors to build up a
Church, and while they did not enjoy the labors of a
sett-led pastor, supplies were almost constant. A small
church building was erected in 1849. Mr. George G.
Barnum was the leading spirit in founding a Cove-
nanter Church in Buffalo, and to whom the Church is
much indebted for his public spirit and unceasing
interest. Failing in their righteous attempt the church

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 22 5

property was disposed of with much reluctance and
difficulty.

York. The congregation of York, in Livingston
County, together with Galen and Caledonia, originated
from the preaching of the indefatigable pioneer and
missionary, the Rev. James Milligan. As early as 1815,
he began preaching in the Genesee Valley, and the
congregation was organized in the fail of 1823.* The
first elders were ordained at that time, and were James
Guthrie, Sr., James Guthrie, Jr., James Milroy and
James Cullings. The communion was dispensed at the
same time by the Rev. William Sloane. Dr. W. L.
Roberts was the pastor for part of his time from 1826
until 1830. Rev. John Fisher was installed as the first
pastor of the York congregation, July 21, 1831. He
preached in two school houses, three miles apart, and
equally distant from the village of York. In 1834, a
commodious church was erected, and this was occupied
until 1872, when the present large and better build-
ing was completed. Mr. Fisher died in the summer
of 1845, after a successful pastorate of fourteen years.
In the winter of 1846, the Rev. Samuel Bowden was
installed the pastor. The congregation grew rapidly
under his ministrations until his release in 1876. Some
internal troubles arose soon afterwards when he was
recalled, and he left the communion of the Church,
with some others. The breach, however, was healed,
and in the fall of 1882, the present pastor, the Rev.
W. C. Allen, was ordained and installed. The names
of Milroy, Guthrie, McMillan, Gay, Logan, Cowan,
*R. P. & C, 1872, p. 85.

226 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

McCracken, Donnan, Hart, Morrow, Jamison, Cullings,
and others, have long been connected with the cause
in that region.

Sterling. Sterling, Cayuga County, and CLYDE,.
Wayne County, were long supplied with preaching and
organized into a congregation in 1823. Dr. W. L..
Roberts became the first paster in 1826, and remained
until 1830, and preached in different localities which
became societies and congregations. He was re-installed
pastor of Clyde and Sterling in the fall of 1837, and
released in 1855. The following year the Rev.
Matthew Wilkin became the pastor, and was in charge
until 1867. For three years they were vacant. In the-
summer of 1870, the Rev. S. R. Galbraith was installed
pastor, and resigned in the following year to accept an.
appointment as a missionary to Syria. Four years they
were without a pastor. In the fall of 1875, the Rev.
T. J. Allen was installed, and remained twelve years.
He built up a good congregation and many improvements
were made in the church property. In 1883, the Sterling
manse was burned with the furniture and library of Mr.
Allen. Another parsonage has been erected. Mr. Allen
resigned in June, 1887, and the Rev. J. C. B. French
was ordained and installed pastor, January 12, 1888.
Among the leading members have been James Hunter,
John Hunter, Hugh Crocket. Samuel Cox, Alexander
McCrea, John B. Crocket, M. W. Calvert, John McCrea,
Robert Mclnroy.

Lisbon. This congregation is situated north of the
centre of St. Lawrence County, New York, and near
the St. Lawrence river. The first Covenanter family

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 22/

settling in this region was that of Mr. William Cole-
man, who came from the Kellswater congregation,
Ireland, in 1820."' In 1823, a society was formed,
which met at the house of Mr. John Smith, and was
composed of the families of William Coleman, John
Smith and William Glass. They had no public preach-
"ing until 1830. In 1828, Mr. William Coleman learned
from Ireland the address of the Rev. J. W. Stewart
of Argyle, New York, and Mr. William Craig, a
member of the Associate Reformed Church, wrote to
Mr. Stewart, but got no reply. Soon afterwards, Mr.
John Smith wrote and got an answer from Mr. Stewart
in February, 1829, who promised to send them a
preacher. This messenger came in the person of the
Rev. James Milligan, in the spring of 1830, who or-
ganized a society and dispensed the sacraments. In
the fall of 1832, Rev. J. W. Stewart, who had been sus-
pended by the Northren Presbytery for defection from the
attainments of the Reformation, came and organized a
society in March, 1833, without authority. He, with
elder John Smith, withdrew and identified themselves
with the New School body in August, 1833. When the
deception of Mr. Stewart was exposed, and the pro-
ceedings of the division of the Church were published,
the misguided brethren tried in vain to destroy the
publications in order to keep the people ignorant of
their defection. Many of the people now returned to
the Church and were visited by Rev. James Milligan
in 1837. They began to be regularly supplied with
preaching by John Holmes, Dr. W. L. Roberts, and
* Extract from Sketch by Rev. W. McFarland.

-228 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Others. In October, 1840, Rev. John Fisher of York,
and elder John Campbell of Rochester, regularly or-
ganized the congregation and admitted thirty-four
members. They were now supplied by William Neill,
W. L. Roberts, John Middleton, and others. A church
building was erected, but the property, in passing
through the civil courts, was illegally conceded to the
New School body in 1843. In 1845, a new church
building was erected, and in the winter of the previous
year, the Rev. John Middleton was ordained and in-
stalled pastor, and resigned in 1854, on account of
the deacon controversy. In the summer of 1856, the
Rev. James McLachlane, formerly a Scotch missionary
to Canada, was installed pastor, and for eight years he
taught and maintained the principles of the Church
with fidelity. He died in 1864. For seven long years
the congregation was a vacancy. Several calls were
made and declined. The present pastor, the Rev.
William McFarland, was ordained and installed in charge,
May 18, 1 87 1. Among those who have borne office
in the Lisbon congregation are John Smith, William
■Glass, James Ballantine, John McCullough, John Cole-
man, John Hargrave, Charles Gillespie, elders ; and
John Campbell, John Aiton, William W. Glass, James
Smith and John C. Glass, deacons. The congregation
is in a good condition, and Reformation principles are
faithfully presented in the region of the St. Lawrence.

NEW JERSEY.

Perth Amboy. In 1685, George Scot, Laird of
Pitlochie, was given his liberty in Scotland provided

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 229

he transported to East Jersey many of the Cove-
nanters who had refused to take the oath of allegiance
to a tyrannical and profligate ruler. Thus authorized,
he proceeded to gather his company from those con-
fined in the tolbooth of Leith. He had to give
security to land them there prior to September, 1686,
and the penalty was to be five hundred merks in
case of failure in any instance. In May, 1685, Scot
chartered the " Henry and Francis " of New Castle, a
ship of three hundred and fifty tons and twenty great
guns, with Richard Hutton as master. On the eve of
their banishment, twenty-eight of them signed the
following conjunct testimony, bearing "That now to
leave their own native and Covenanted land by an
unjust sentence of banishment for owning truth and
standing by duty, studying to keep their Covenant
engagements and baptismal vows, whereby they stand
obliged to resist and testify against all that is con-
trary to the Word of God and their Covenants ; and
that their sentence of banishment ran chiefly because
they refused the oath of allegiance which in con-
science they could not take, because, in so doing
they thought they utterly declined the Lord Jesus
Christ from having any power in His own house, and
practically would, by taking it, say. He was not King
and Head of His Church and over their consciences.
And, on the contrary, this was to take and put in
His room a man whose breath is in his nostrils ; yea,
a man who is a sworn enemy to religion, an avowed
papist, whom, by our Covenants, we are bound to
withstand and disown, ' and that agreeably to Scripture :
u

230 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

'When thou art come unto the land which the Lord
thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt
dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a King over
me, like as all the nations that are about me, thou
shalt in anywise set him King over thee, whom the
Lord thy God shalt choose : one from among thy
brethren shalt thou set King over thee : thou mayest
not set a stranger over thee, which is not thy
brother.' " — Dent. ly : 14, 75. They then bore their
testimony against the defections of the day, and for
preaching in the fields and houses, and then signed
their names. As Wodrow has given these narrtes of
the banished, we have thought it proper to insert
them here. Their names are: ft Robert Adam, Lady
Athernie,^ John Arbuckle," Rev. William Aisdale,\
John Black, George Brown, Robert Campbell, David
Carnpbell, John Campbell, William Campbell, Christian
Cavie, John Crichton, John Corbet, Andrew Corbet,
John Casson, Agnes Corhead, Barbara Cowan, Marjory
Cowan, William Cunningham, Patrick Cuningham,
Charles Douglas, William Douglas, Isabel Durie, John
Frazer, Thomas Fiiilater, Elspeth Ferguson, Janet
Ferguson, Mary Ferret,* John Ford,* James Forsythe,*
John Foreman, John Gray, Thomas Gray, Thomas
Graham, Grisel Gamble, William Ged,\ Fergus Grier,
James Grier, Robert Gilchrist, John Gilfillan,* Bessie
Gordon, Annabel Gordon,* Katharine Govan, John
Harris,* John Harvie,* John Henderson,* Adam Hood,*
Charles Honyall,* JoJin HntcJiinson, John Hodge,

f f Remark : f Voluntarily left Scotland. * Left a written protest. Those
in italics died on the voyage.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 23 1

Thomas Jackson* William Jackson, George Johnston*
John Johnstone. t James Junk, John King, John Kippan,
John Kincaid,* James Kirkwood, John Kirkland, John
Kellie, Kathcrine Kellit\ John Kennie, Margaret
Leslie,* Janet Linthron, Gawen Lockhart, Michael
Marshall, John Marshall, John Martin, Margaret Miller'
George Muir,* Gilbert Honor g, Jean Moffat,* John
Muirhead, James Muirhead,* William McCalmont,
John McEwen, Walter McEwen,* Robert McEwen,*
John McQueen,* Robert McLellan, Margaret McLellan,
Andrew McLellan, John McKenman, William McMillan,
John McGhie,* William Nevin,t William Oliphant,
Andrew Patterson,* John Pollock, JoJin Ramn, Rev.
Archibald Riddell,-\ Mrs. Archibald Riddell,\ William
Rigg,f Marian Rennie, John Renwick, James Reston,
Thomas Russell, Peter Russell,* Christian Strang,*
William Sprat, Agnes Stevens,* William Sproull,*
Thomas Shelston, John Szvinton, John Smith,
John Seton,* George Scot,\ Margaret Scot;\ Eiipham
Scot,\ Janet Symington,* James Sittingtown,* John
Targat, John Turpine, William Turnbull, Patrick Urie,
John Vernor,t Mrs. Vernor,t John Watt, Patrick Walker,
James Wardrope, Elizabeth Whitelaw, Girzel Wither-
spoon, William Wilson, Robert Young.* The charge for
transportation was five pounds sterling for each adult,
and to each of those who were unable to pay for
their passage was promised twenty-fi\^ acres of land
and a suit of new clothes on the completion of four
years of service ; for children under twelve years of
age, fifty shillings ; sucking children, free ; one ton of
goods, forty shillings. These have been known in

2 32 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

American History as "Redemptioners." Many of these
passengers had endured much suffering. After some
delay, the ship sailed from the road of Leith, Septem-
ber 5, 1685. We hear of no untoward event until
after they had turned the "Land's End," when a fever
began to prevail with virulence, particularly among the
prisoners who had been confined in the great vault of
Dunnotter. Many were sick when they came aboard,
and the health of the others was endangered by the
condition of the provisions laid in by the Captain.
The meat began to putrefy and was not eatable. In
a month the fever assumed a malignant type. FeW
escaped its ravages, and three or four bodies were cast
overboard every day. Most of the ship's crew, except
the Captain and boatswain, died. Pitlochie, who had
freighted the ship, with his lady, died likewise, and
so enjoyed nothing of the gain of nearly one hundred
prisoners gifted him by the Council, and upwards of
seventy persons died at sea. Death and unwholesome
food were not the only evils the unfortunate Cove-
nanters had to encounter ; the master of the ship
was most cruel to the prisoners. Those who were
placed under deck were not allowed to go about
worship, and when they attempted it the Captain
would thrown down great planks of timber to disturb
them and endanger their lives. The ship sprang a
leak twice, and frequent storms added to their anxiety.
After the death of Pitlochie, the prisoners fell into
the hands of John Johnstone, his son-in-law. Captain
Hutton began to tamper with Mr. Johnstone, and
urged him to carry the prisoners to Virginia or

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 233

Jamaica, either place presenting better opportunity for
disposing of them than New Jersey, and offered as
an inducement to charge himself with the disposal of
the prisoners and to account to him for them in the
productions of the country. But the wind changed
and they were forced to sail straight for New Jersey.
They landed at Perth Amboy, New Jersey, in the
middle of December, 1685, having been about fifteen
weeks at sea. Before going ashore, Johnstone endeav-
ored to stop them by urging them to sign an agree-
ment to serve four years at that place in considera-
ti-on of the expense incurred by the departed Scot.
This they would not agree to, but joined in another
protest against their banishment and recounted their
harsh treatment during the voyage. When they came
ashore, the people who lived on the coast and had
not the gospel preached to them, were inhospitable
and showed them no kindness. A little way up in
the country, however, there was a town (supposed to
be Woodbridge), and a minister settled, and the
inhabitants were very kind to them. When they learned
who the prisoners were and their circumstances, they
invited all who were able to travel to come and live
with them, and sent horses for the rest, and enter-
tained them freely and liberally that winter. In the
following spring, John Johnstone pursued them and
had them all cited before a legal tribunal of the
Province, After hearing both sides, the Governor called
a jury to sit and cognosce upon the affair, who found
that the pannels had not of their own accord come
to that ship, nor bargained with Pitlochie for money

2 34 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

or service, and therefore, according to the laws of the
country, they were assoiled. Those who had so
agreed had their suits come before the Court of
Common Rights, and Captain Hutton was remunerated.
The prisoners then scattered throughout Eastern Penn-
sylvania, New York and Connecticut, where they were
kindly entertained and found employment according
to their different trades." At different times the per-
secuted Covenanters were banished to New Jersey,
Delaware and South Carolina, but in the latter part
of the seventeenth century this cruelty ceased. At
this time no organized society of Covenanters has an
existence in New Jersey.

PatersON. For some years previous to its organiza-
tion into a congregation, a few families of Covenanters
resided in the city of Paterson. They were usually
supplied by the students of the Philadelphia Seminary
and received the organization in the fall of 1818.
The Rev. William L. Roberts was the first pastor
•ordained and installed in charge in May, 1824. The
'Congregation was small and rent with factions, and he
resigned the charge in December, 1825. The Rev.
William Gibson took charge of the congregation in
1826, and was stated supply for several years. In
1833, the great majority of the members went into
the New School body and the cause gradually de-
clined. The few faithful followers of the Church were
supplied but they lost their organization in October,
1836. Of the eldership were James W. King, John
Mclntire and Thomas Lindon.

*Wodrow, Vol. 4, p. 331.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 235

Newark. A number of Covenanters residing in this
•city and holding membership in the congregations of
New York City, petitioned for an organization, which
was granted, and the Newark congregation was or-
ganized, June 17, 1874, with eighteen members. David
Houston and William J. Douglass were chosen ruling
elders. They were supplied regularly by Presbytery
and worshipped in Irving Hall. The Rev. David H,
Coulter was installed pastor in December, 1874. He
resigned in October, 1875, and for three years they
were supplied ; but failing to maintain the cause, were
■disorganized in October, 1878.

DELAWARE.

Wilmington. Previous to its organization, the con-
gregation of this city was supplied by students of the
Philadelphia Seminary. An organization was effected
in December, 1832, at which time Samuel M. Gayley
was ordained and installed in charge. In the following
year, he, and the congregation, went into the New
School body, and, in 1837, over to the Presbyterian
Church.

PENNSYLVANIA.

Philadelphia. Early in the eighteenth century
Covenanters from Scotland and Ireland settled in the
inviting Cumberland Valley in Eastern Pennsylvania,
and doubtless some of them resided temporarily in the
city of Philadelphia. The first account of any Cove-

236 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

nanters in Philadelphia was in 1740,* when a family
by the name of Boyd emigrated from Ireland. Mr.
Boyd died soon after his arrival in this country, and
his family took rooms in the household of James
Rainey, an emigrant from the same country, Mr.
Rainey was furnished Covenanter literature, and, no-
doubt, moral suasion by Mrs. Boyd, and he soon em-
braced the principles of the Church. In 1748, Mr.
Rainey removed to the Wallkill, in Orange County^
New York, and the Boyd family are henceforth un-
known to history. After the arrival of the Rev. John
Cuthbertson, the first Covenanter minister that came
to America, we find him preaching in Philadelphia, t
He preached at the house of Mr. George Graham, in
this city, November 26, 1754, at which time he
baptized Jane, daughter of George Graham. In October,
1761, Mr. Cuthbertson accompanied the Rev. Alexander
McDowell to Philadelphia, and the latter preached in
the city. About this time a family by the name of
Galbraith settled in the city, and Mr. Galbraith died
soon afterwards. In 1774, Mr. Thomas Thomson and
his family, from the congregation of the Rev. William.
Stavely, in County Down, Ireland, arrived, and social
religious • worship was conducted in his house for many
years. In November, 1774, the Rev. John Cuthbert-
son preached in the city and called upon the Rev.
Mr. Marshall, of the Associate Church. The Reformed
Presbytery met in Philadelphia, November 26, 1774.
and a Committee consisting of Revs. John Cuthbert-
son, Matthew Linn, Alexander Dobbin, and elder

'^Covenanter, Vol. i, p. 314. f Cuthbertson's Diary.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 237

William Brown, rectified some irregularities existing
among the people. Mr. Cuthbertson again preached
to the Philadelphians in November, 1779. In 1784,
Mr. John Agnew emigrated from Ireland, and, after a
residence of three years in this city, removed to that
of New York. In 1788, Mr. John Wallace emigrated
from Ireland, but, failing to find any Covenanters, was
starting to New York to return to his native land,,
when, at his lodging place, he providentially met with
an acquaintance of Thomas Thomson, and directed him
to his house in Camden, opposite the city. Mr. Wallace
remained, and he and Mr. Thomson formed a society,
which was held in the latter's house for many years.
In 1790, the Rev. James Reid, missionary from Scot-
land, preached in Mr. Thomson's house, and this was
the beginning of the Philadelphia congregation. In
1792, the society was augmented by the accessions of
Andrew McLure, William and James McGowan, Samuel:
Campbell and Joseph Sterrett. In 1793, the Rev. James
McKinney, from Ireland, came among them and
preached. In 1795, the following families were added
to the society : John Stewart and Stephen Young
from Scotland ; and Charles Huston, John Wallace,
William Acheson, Andrew Acheson and Samuel Rad-
cliff from Ireland. Mr. McKinney preached to them
occasionally in a school house in Gaskill street below
Fifth. He now procured a lot in St. Mary's street,,
above Sixth, and began the erection of a church build-
ing. The work progressed very slowly and was not
finished until 1803. In October, 1797, the society
received a large contribution of members from Ireland,

238 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

among which company were the Rev. William Gibson
and family, John Reilly, Thomas McAdam, and Messrs,
John Black and S. B. Wylie, students of Theology.
Mr. John McKinley, a teacher in New Jersey, visited
the society occasionally. Then there came the families
of Joseph McClurg, Hugh Miller and Robert Orr from
Ireland. Rev. William Gibson now preached to them
one half of his time, and the other half in New York.
Rev. William Gibson formally organized the first con-
gregation in Philadelphia in the Gaskill street school
house, January 28, 1798. He brought on elders Andrew
Gififord and David Clark from New York, to constitute
the session. At this time, Thomas Thomson, John
Stewart and Stephen Young were ordained elders of
the new congregation. In May, 1798, the Reformed
Presbytery, which had been dissolved since the coali-
tion of 1782, was constituted in the same school house
by Revs. William Gibson and James McKinney.
William Henry, Thomas McAdam and John Reilly
were ordained ruling elders, August 5, 1801. Mr.
Stephen Young had previously returned to Scotland
and was a bookseller of renown. The first sacrament
of the Lord's supper was dispensed in Philadelphia by
Revs. Alexander McLeod and S. B. Wylie on the first
Sabbath of June, 1802, to about thirty-five persons,
among whom were Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Thomson,
Mr. and Mrs. John Reilly, Mr. and Mrs. William
Henry, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McAdam, John Wallace,
Catharine and Mary Gilleland, Mr. and Mrs. Service,
Catharine and Jane Service, Miss Hall, Mrs. Kidd, Miss
Creighton, Hugh Miller, James Vertue, Mrs. Gray, Charles

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 239

Huston, Mr. and Mrs. James Black, Mr. and Mrs. George
Graham, Miss Purvis, John McLean and James Camp-
bell. In the fall of 1802, the Rev. S. B. Wylie was
presented with a call from the united congregations of
Philadelphia and Baltimore.* He accepted the call on
the conditions that he should be allowed to spend a
year in Europe, that his pastoral relation should begin
■on his return, and that at the end of two years he
might be at liberty to select one or the other, or
neither of the congregations, without further action of
the Presbytery. He was duly installed pastor of the
united congregations of Philadelphia and Baltimore, No-
vember 20, 1803. He found the congregations in both
the cities in a feeble condition, although public or-
dinances had been dispensed as frequently as possible.
The edifice in Philadelphia was poor and in an un-
desirable location. It was thought proper to abandon
the old unfinished church. This was not done, however,
and the building was repaired and rendered more com-
fortable. The term of his connection with the united
•congregations having expired, Mr. Wylie demitted the
charges, although he was earnestly invited to remain
in Philadelphia. In the fall of 1807, he also received
a unanimous call from Duanesburgh, New York, but
finally decided to accept the call from Philadelphia,
and he was duly installed the pastor. At the next
communion twenty-five persons were admitted to
Church privileges and the whole aspect of the field
became more encouraging. In 1808, John McKinley,
James Robinson and Robert Orr were ordained ruling
* Pamphlet by Dr. S. B. Wylie, 1847.

240 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

elders. In 1809, Mr, John Reilly was licensed to
preach and his connection with the congregation
ceased. In 18 16, the old church in St. Mary's street
was sold and a more commodious building was erected
on Eleventh street, below Market, and was opened for
service, June 21, 18 18. In the mean time they wor-
shipped in the Second Associate Reformed Church in
Thirteenth street, above Market. In 18 19, Isaac Camp-
bell, John Murphy and Samuel Bell were ordained
elders, and, in 1820, Caleb Gray was recognized as a.
member of session. In 1824, Hugh Hardy, of Ohio^
and in 1829, Henry Sterling, of Pittsburg, were added to-
the eldership. In 1829, the church building was en-
larged by utilizing the rooms in the rear of the
building. At the division of the Church in 1833, this-
congregation suffered a great loss because the pastor
was the leading spirit among those who withdrew from
the communion of the Church. Out of a membership-
of about four hundred and fifty, three hundred went
with the pastor into the New School body, including
all the elders, and they retained the church property..
Without a session, the faithful Covenanters, who ad-
hered to the principles of the Church, were immediately
organized into a congregation by the' ordination of
Walter Bradford, Joseph Frazer and William Caldwell,
ruling elders. They had, previous to the division, be-
come dissatisfied, and purchased a church in Cherry
street, below Eleventh, in which the General Synod
met in August, 1833. The sacrament was administered
on the first Sabbath of December, 1833, to one hundred
and forty-five communicants. The Rev. James M. Willson

PREfSBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 24 1

was ordained and installed pastor, November 27, 1834.
In 1838, deacons were ordained to manage the temporal
affairs of the congregation, and this soon lead to an
unpleasant feeling among a part of the people. The
Second congregation of Philadelphia was organized,
August 10, 1842, and the Rev. Samuel O. Wylie was
installed pastor, December 5, 1844, and, after a long
and successful pastorate, was released by death, August
22, 1883. In October, 1862, the Rev. J. M. Willson
resigned the First congregation to fill the chair of
Theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and the Rev.
T. P. Stevenson, the present pastor, was ordained and
installed as his successor, May 5, 1863. In 1867, the
'Church in Cherry street was sold, and for two years
they worshipped in halls. In 1869, they worshipped
at Seventeenth and Filbert streets, and for ten years,
and in 1879, the present large and well appointed
•church at Seventeenth and Bainbridge streets >vas
erected. In the winter of 1851, the Third congrega-
tion was organized in Kensington, and held their
services in Commissioner's Hall. The following year
the present house of worship was erected on Deal
street near Frankford Avenue. The officers were Robert
Forsythe, Samuel Cameron, W. O. Lindsay, William
White, William Young, William Brown and William
Dunlap. The Rev. A. M. Milligan was the first pastor
installed in December, 1853, and released in October,

1855. Rev. John Middleton was installed in November,

1856, and resigned in May, 1862. Rev. Robert J.
Sharpe was ordained and installed pastor in April, 1866,
and was released in April, 1879. Rev. John M. Crozier

242 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

was installed in May, 1880, and released by sudden-
death in September, 1881. The Rev. R. C. Mont-
gomery, the present pastor, was ordained and installed,.
March 27, 1883. A Fourth congregation was or-
ganized in the summer of 1853. In July, 1854, the
Rev. David McKee was ordained and installed pastor,
and after laboring for five years, the congregation was
disorganized and the members returned to the other
congregations. After the death of Dr. S. O. Wylie,,
the Second congregation called the Rev. Prof. J. K.
McClurkin, of Westminster College, who was ordained
and installed pastor, October 9, 1884. The old church
building was taken down, and the handsome edifice
in which they now worship was erected. Mr. McClurkin
resigned the charge, August 25, 1887, to accept the
chair of Theology in the Allegheny Seminary. Among
other prominent members identified with the cause of
the Reformation in Philadelphia have been of the First
Congregation : Walter Bradford, Joseph Frazer. John
Ford, John Service, Matthew Mackie, William Craw-
ford, John Evans, Samuel McMahon, Henry Floyd,.
Samuel McMullin, William White, John Alexander
William Young, David Smith, William Dunlap,
William Pxhols, James Dunlap, James Stevenson, Robert
Keys, William W. Keys, Hugh Lamont, John Wright,.
William Carson, William McKnight, Robert Patton,.
William Anderson,. Matthew McConnell, Andrew Mc-
Murray, John M. Graham, James Crawford, Hugh
Graham, Samuel Irwin, Hugh Lilly, John Marshall, John
Lyons, John Cunningham, William G. Carson, Charles
Pullinger. Daniel Morrison, T. S. McDonald, James.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 243

Patterson. Of the Second Congregation : William Brown,
Ebenezer Craig, Charles Craig, John Caldwell, George
Orr, James Anderson, David Eccles, John Brown,
Ezekiel Sterritt, Robert Sterritt, Samuel Fulton, James
McKnight, William Walker, Thomas Walker, James
Carlisle, J. B. Stewart, Thomas Brown, William Stewart,
James Keys, Samuel Patterson, D. J. Mcllhatton, William
J. Ferguson, James McKee, William Lackey, William
Walker, Jr., Robert Clelland, Dr. A. Caldwell, Robert
J. Jamison. Of the TJiird Congregation ; William
Cochran, Alexander Mackie, Samuel Cameron, Adam
Lindsay, William O. Lindsay, Robert Forsythe, William
Young, Hiigh Lamont, Thomas Laughlin, James Blair,
William Steele, William McHatton, Hutcheson McCand-
less, Joseph Service, A. J. H. Mackie, George Alex-
ander, John Grier, Joseph Steele, John McQuigg,
Thomas J. Crozier.

Cumberland Valley. The Commonwealth of Penn-
sylvania has no more productive region within its
borders than the Cumberland Valley, extending from
Harrisburgh south into Maryland and Virginia ; and
no section of this valley is richer in agricultural,
mineral and manufacturing resources, than the fertile
fields, rugged hills and busy towns of Franklin County.
Early in the eighteenth century the persecuted Cove-
nanters found an asylum in this inviting region and
settled down to the "honorable vocation of husband-
men. The principal settlements were along the Con-
ococheagiie Creek, which word, in the Indian language,
means "indeed a long way." Settlements were also
made along the Octorara, Pequea, Conestoga, Swatara,

24A HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and other small streams that flow into the Susque-
hanna from the east. These clusters of families scat-
tered all over the eastern part of Pennsylvania had
been trained in the faithful practices of the Covenanter
Church beyond the sea, and did not fellowship with
•other denominations in religious worship, but after the
example of their ancestors met at each other's houses
for social worship. In 1720, a society formed at
Paxtang, Dauphin County, and among the families
were those of McClure, Wilson, Wills, Foster, Gil-
more, Gray, Rutherford and Espy. Still farther north
-on the Susquehanna near Milton, Northumberland
County, dwelt the families of Hugh Wilson, John
Boyd and Samuel Brown, as early as 1728. In 1731,
there were a few families on "The Barrens" in York
County. In Adams County they settled upon an
immense tract of land in 1736, called the "Manor of
Maske," which was given by the Province. The
principal settlements were at Octorara, Lancaster
■County ; Paxtang, Dauphin County; and Conococheague,
Franklin County. The forefathers of the Willson
family, and the ancestors of the ministers of the
Church by that name, settled in Franklin County
about 1730, and about 1750, removed to the Cove
valley, a little west of the Blue Ridge, and some
twenty-five miles from Chambersburgh. The McCon-
nells, also, who subsequently became related to the
Willson family, resided in the Cove at the time of
the Indian massacre in 1756. They all migrated to
the region of the Yough, in Western Pennsylvania,
in 1769. In the vicinity of Octorara, Lancaster County,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 245

a considerable society of Covenanters had been col-
lected previous to 1740. Rev. Alexander Craighead,
a minister in connection with the Presbyterian Church
at that place, withdrew from that body because that
Church did not ratify the Westminster Standards.
Mr. Craighead identified himself with the languishing
cause of the Covenanters. He accepted their principles
and became their preacher. Had he not done so,
those faithful and conscientious Covenanters would not
have followed him, neither would they have heard
him preach nor received the sacraments from his
hands. Mr. Craighead was deeply imbued with the
spirit of the Scottish Covenants, and contended
earnestly for the descending obligation of Covenants
upon all whose ancestors were parties to the same,
and insisted upon making the adoption of the Solemn
League and Covenant and the National Covenant of
Scotland a term of Communion for members of the
Church in the Colonies as well as in the mother
country. He claimed that the sea did not absolve
the relation nor remove their obligation. He testified
continually to the Headship of Christ over the Nation,
and the responsibility of all rulers to Him ; a failure
of whose allegiance to Him would forfeit the allegiance
of the people to the ruler. He preached these good
old Covenanter doctrines with a zeal and courage
that commanded admiration, and brought down upon
him the censure of the Synod and the odium of the
Governor.''^ On November 11, 1743, Mr. Craighead
gathered all the Covenanters together at a meeting

*Rev. Dr. A. W. Miller, in Sermon, May 14, 1876, Charlotte, N. C.
13

246 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

at Octorara, Lancaster County, and. after various
religious services, he and the congregation renewed
the Covenants — National and Solemn League. After
denouncing George IL as an unfit King, they then
swore with uplifted swords to " keep their bodies,
property and consciences against all attacks ; to defend
Christ's gospel and the purity of the Church; to
submit to no ruler who would not submit to Christ,
and to defend their liberty from fears without and
within." This declaration immediately disturbed the
political as well as the religious waters, for Governor
Morris, in his message to the Assembly, denounced
these people for their " aspirations and machinations
to obtain independency."* The following spring another
General Meeting was held, the minutes of which have
been handed down to posterity by Mr. Thomas
Wilson, of Marsh Creek, who was doubtless the
Secretary,- and are inserted as a fair specimen of their
proceedings.

"THE GENERAL MEETING.

''Middle Octorara, March 4th, 1744.

"The G. M. constituted by prayer. Mr. Creaghead
chosen prses. The following commissioners being pres-
ent commissionated from their respective corres-
pondents, viz :

"From over Susquehanna, Christopher Houston; from
Paxton, James Mitchel and Andrew Smith ; from ye
Barrens, Saml. Jackson and Saml. Hathorn ; from Mr.
Creaghead's, Robert Laughead and Josiah Kerr ; from

* Wheeler's Reminiscences, p. 276.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 247

Muddy Run, John Brownlee and Joseph Bell ; from
Pequea, Jos. Walker, Neal McNaught and Wm. Ramsey ;
from Marsh Creek, Thomas Wilson and David Dunwoodie.

I St. "It is agreed upon by ye G. M. that no per-
sons are to be admitted into our G. M. except those
that are commissionated by their respective C's, except
those of our community that have any particular
business with the G. M.

2d/y. "The alteration of our Society Rules that were
altered by a committee is approven by the G. M.;
the G. M. allows that each correspondent get a copy
of ye Rules as they are now altered.

3<//^. "It is agreed upon by ye G. M. that none of
our community hire or employ a papist in our families,
or be employed by any papist in their houses.

4.t/ilj'y "It is agreed upon concerning ye Levy that
it be paid, until that there be some other end that
contradicts our testimony.

z,t/ilj'. "It is agreed upon concerning Phineas White-
side that Saml. Jackson and Saml. Hathorn go to Mr.
Allison's concerning his learning, and to agree for his
boarding where most convenient.

6t/i/j'. "It is agreed upon by ye G. M. that Joseph
Irwin withdraw from ye Society until his case be
cleared in respect of ye scandal laid against him.

•/t/i/f. " It is agreed upon that Mr. Creaghead, John
Brownlee and James Wilson are ordered to revise the
minutes of our G. M.'s before ye next G. M.

ZtJily. "The G. M. agrees that John Walker was
found guilty in ye affair laid against him, in not

248 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

giving timous warning to Matthew Patterson to attend
at ye running out of a line betwixt them.

()thly. " It is agreed upon that each private Society
of our community give in their subscriptions for Mr.
Creaghead's stipends against our next G. M., and that
they make conscience to pay ye same yearly; if any
society fails herein, they may expect that ye G. M.
will take a particular account of them."

The meeting severely condemned mixed marriages
and infairs held at the same, and finished the pro-
tracted meeting with lengthy causes of fasting.

Mr. Craighead, however, did not possess stability,
and, terminating his connection with the Covenanters
in 1749, returned to the Presbyterian Church and
removed to Virginia, thence to Mecklenberg, North
Carolina, where he died in 1766. The societies were
again left in a destitute condition. They returned to
the society meetings and prayed for an under-shepherd.
In answer to their urgent entreaties, the Rev. John
Cuthbertson was sent to the lonely societies in America
by the Reformed Presbytery of Scotland. The informa-
tion of names and places of settlements is taken
directly from his diary. He landed at New Castle,
Delaware, August 5, 1751, having been forty-six days
at sea from Derry Loch. He praised God for His
superintending care during the voyage. He first lodged
with Thomas Grififith, and the next day rode twenty
miles on horse back to the home of Moses Andrews,
and on the third day he rode fifteen miles further
south to the house of Joseph Ross, near the line
between Pennsylvania and Maryland, where he met a

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 249

Presbytery (supposed to be the New Castle Presbytery
of the Presbyterian Church), and conversed about some
difficulties. On Friday, August 9, 175 1, he preached
his first sermon in America at the house of Joseph
Ross. His text was Jonah 2: 8, "They that observe
lying vanities forsake their own mercy." The travels
of Revs. Cuthbertson, Linn and Dobbin are so extensive
that the societies will be taken in the order of their
locations and the names of the early members given
under each.

Northumberland County. On October 21, 175 1,
the Rev. John Cuthbertson stopped at the Indian
wigwam not far from the present town of Milton and
conversed with several persons concerning Church
doctrines, and preached at the house of Mitchell Clyde.
He remained in the neighborhood and preached the
next Sabbath and baptized George, son of James Gray,
and Jean, daughter of Mitchell Clyde. Not far distant
were the families of George Gray, James Gilmore and
James McPherson. At the coalition of 1782, a good
many went into the Associate Reformed Church. In
1798, they were again organized, and, in the early
part of the present century they were sometimes visited
by ministers while passing between Philadelphia and
Pittsburgh. An incident is related to show the great
value placed upon preaching and the belief in prayer.
There had been a long interval during which they
had enjoyed no preaching, and. their letters failing to
bring a reply, they agreed to observe a fast day and
pray for the desired blessing. This they did, and, at
the close of the service, one of the devout worshippers

250 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

was noticed to retire to an obscure place and there
he poured out his soul in secret prayer. Another
watched for his return to the company, and, as he
drew near, his countenance indicated that his prayer
was not in vain. To the inquiry, "What speed.'" the
reply was, " It is neither new moon nor Sabbath, but
it shall be well." The same evening the Rev. John
Black, of Pittsburgh, arrived on horseback and preached
on the following Sabbath.* The society was not
regularly organized into a congregation at Milton until
the fall of 1830. Previous and subsequent to the
organization it was supplied by students from the
Philadelphia Seminary. The Rev. William Wilson was
installed pastor in the summer of 1832, and the following
year he and the congregation became identified with
the New School body, and the cause is now extinct.

Middle Octorara, Lanxaster County. There was
a society of Covenanters in this vicinity as early as
1740, and here the Rev. Alexander Craighead joined
them and lead them in the renewing of the Cove-
nants in 1743. The Rev. John Cuthbertson permanently
located here and lived about two miles from the stone
church, which edifice was used until 1849, or a period
of nearly one hundred years. The grant of one hundred
acres of land was made to Rev. Alexander Craighead
and his elders, when he ministered to the Covenanter
society, by the proprietaries of William Penn, for
church and school purposes, and six acres for a grave-
yard. The Presbyterians have since held the church
property by right of pos.session, although it was

* Dr. Sproull's Sketches.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 25 1

originally granted to the Covenanters. On August 11,
175 1, Mr. Cuthbertson first preached here at the tent
three miles from the house of Joseph Walker. He
returned from a monthly trip in September, 1751,
crossing into Lancaster County near Columbia, and
married Robert Love and Rachael Sloane at the river.
On Sabbath, September 8, 1751, he preached in the
Octorara tent and baptized Joseph, son of Joseph
Kincaid ; Mary, daughter of Alexander Lackey ; Jean,
daughter of William Patterson ; Hannah, daughter of
Robert Galbraith ; John, son of Andrew Little ; Jean,
daughter of Jeremiah Murray ; Samuel and Andrew,
sons of Joseph Walker ; and Mary, daughter of Moses
Laughhead. At the house of Robert Laughhead,
November 29, 1753, Mr. Cuthbertson presided in an
■election of ten persons for ruling elders. These were
chosen at the General Meeting and were for all the
societies. Those for Octorara were Robert Galbraith
and Thomas Ramsey, ordained October 20, 1754. At
the same time and place, Phineas Whiteside and
William Galbraith were ordained for Pequea ; John
McMillan and John Duncan for Muddy Run, both of
whom afterwards removed to York County ; and Walter
Buchanan for Junkin Tent in Cumberland County. At
the communion at Octorara, October 27, 1754, there
were five tables and two hundred and sixty sat down
and communed. At the next communion on October
1 9) 1755' two hundred and twenty communed. After
the marriage of Mr. Cuthbertson, February 25, 1756,
he took up his permanent residence at Octorara and
lived the remainder of his life on a farm bought from

2 52 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Josiah Kerr, which was about two miles from the
church. Revs. Alexander McDowell and Daniel
McClelland frequently preached here and accompanied
Mr. Cuthbertson on his tours. Mr. McClelland assisted
at a communion here April 20, 1766, and also on
May 31, 1767, but his services were not highly
appreciated. After the arrival of Revs. Matthew Linn
and Alexander Dobbin, in December, 1773. they
frequently preached at Octorara for Mr. Cuthbertson.
After the organization of the Reformed Presbytery in
1774, it frequently met at Octorara. After the union
of 1782, Mr. Cuthbertson removed to Lower Chance-
ford, and the Octorara congregation was under the care
of the Rev. John Smith. Mr. Cuthbertson was buried
in the Lower Octorara graveyard. Nearly all the
Covenanters of Octorara went into the Associate Re-
formed Church in 1782, and continued in that relation
until 1823, when, on its own application, the congrega-
tion was received by the Associate Presbytery of
Philadelphia. In 1858, Octorara went into the union
and is now a United Presbyterian congregation.*
Covenanterism is totally extinct in this region. The
following were heads of families and members of the
Covenanter Church at Octorara previous to 1774:
Joseph and John Walker, William Robinson, James,
Robert and Moses Laughhead, William Dunlap, Arthur
Scott, Joseph Kincaid, Daniel and David McClelland,
Alexander and Samuel Lackey, William and Thomas
Patterson, Thomas Paxton, Robert Galbraith, Josiah and
Joseph Kerr, Andrew Little, Thomas and Robert
*Aikin's Sketch of Cuthbertson.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 253.

Ramsey, James Wilson of Nottingham, Henry Coulter,
John Neilie and Joseph Wishart.

Muddy Run. This society was situated about four
miles from the present town of Mc Call's Ferry, on the
Susquehanna river. The first log church was built pre-
vious to 1750. The first visit they enjoyed from a Cove-
nanter preacher was on October 2, 175 1, when the
Rev. John Cuthbertson preached in the log- meeting
house. At this time he baptized Agnes, daughter of
John Reed ; Joseph and Margaret, children of Joseph
McMillan ; and Agnes, daughter of Peter Patterson.
John McMillan and John Duncan were ordained ruling
elders, October 20, 1754. Among the principal families
were those of John Reed, Peter and John Patterson,
John Brownlee, Joseph and John McMillan, John
Duncan and William Mitchell. In 1782, the society
went into the Associate Reformed Church and sub-
sequently into the Associate Church. At the present
time a few United Presbyterians hold an organization.

Pequea. This society was located about sixteen
miles north of Octorara in the Pequea valley. It is
not probable that the Covenanters had a house of
worship here, but held the services in the neighbor-
ing house of Humphrey Fullerton. The Rev. John
Cuthbertson visited the society August 14, 175 1, and
the services were four hours long. He held a com-
munion here August 24, 1755, at which one hundred
and ninety persons communed, and the services were
ten hours in length, conducted without any assistance.
At a meeting held October 20, 1754, Phineas White-
side and William Galbraith were ordained ruling.

.2 54 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

elders; and on October 4, 1767, Humphrey Fullerton,
Thomas Girvan, James Ramsey, Cornelius Colins and
John Robb were added to the session. The union between
the Seceders and Covenanters was culminated here in
1782, and the majority of the Covenanters went into
the Associate Roformed Church and under the pastoral
care of the Rev. James Proudfit. Among the early
Covenanters of this society were the families of
Humphrey Fullerton, Matthew McClurg, Neil McKnight,
Robert McCurdy, Thomas Montgomery, John Boyd,
Phineas Whiteside, Cornelius Colins, William Galbraith,
Alexander Lackey, James Ramsey and John Robb.
There was a Covenanter living there as late as 1830,
a Mr. McGill, and for several years the Rev. James
Douglas of Bovina, New York, would come once a
year and preach for the godly old man, who would
harness up his one ox in his cart, place a chair in
it, and drive the minister around among the hills of
Brandywine, and give the people an opportunity to
liear a good Covenanter sermon.*

Donegal. Mr. Cuthbertson frequently stopped and
preached here at the house of the widow Carson when
on his way between Pequea and Derry.

COLERAIN. This was the home of Mr. Daniel
McClelland, and was situated about eighteen miles
from Lancaster. Mr. Cuthbertson preached here occa-
sionally, and, on September 24, 175 1, he had a pro-
tracted pubHc debate with a Mr. Craighead. It is
not known what the dispute was about, but Mr. Craig-
head was won over to Mr. Cuthbertson's views. There

* Aikin'ff Sketch.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 255

were probably but five places of preaching in Lancaster
County ; the principal ones being Octorara, Muddy Run
and Pequea.

Paxtang, Dauphin County. This society was
situated about four miles east of the present city
of Harrisburgh. Covenanters settled here as early as
1740, and were holding society meetings. The Rev.
John ("uthbertson first visited them August 15, 175 1, and
lodged at the house of William Brown. He baptized
Eliza, daughter of Andrew Stuart ; Helen, daughter of
Matthew Taylor ; and Mary Ann, daughter of Joseph
McKnight. A communion was held August 25, 1754,
and about two hundred and fifty communed. Mr.
Cuthbertson says that an awful thunder storm, accom-
panied by fearful lightning, occured during the blessing
of the elements, and that four horses and a dog were
killed, and a tree shattered by lightning not more
than forty yards from the tent. On the following
Sabbath, Mr. Cuthbertson had some unusual appear-
ances of death. William Brown, Henry McCormick,
Thomas Mitchell and Benjamin Brown were ordained
ruling elders, February 24, 1771. While visiting the
society in November, 1772, Mr. Cuthbertson was pre-
vented from preaching on account of a great storm.
In the spring of 1773, elder William Brown was sent
to Ireland as a commissioner to procure two additional
ministers and was especially instructed to get, if
possible, the Rev. Matthew Linn, of Aghadowey. He
was successful, and Mr. Alexander Dobbin, specially
licensed and ordained for this purpose, accompanied
him to America. The first Reformed Presbytery in

256 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

America was constituted in this place, March 10, 1774,.
and the Rev. Matthew Linn was then placed in charge
of Paxtang and adjacent societies. After the union of
1782, the cause gradually declined and finally became
extinct. Among the early families connected with the
Paxtang society were those of William, James, Alex-
ander and Benjamin Brown, John Graham, Andrew
and Alexander Stuart, George Williams, Matthew and
John Taylor, Bartholomew Hains, Joseph McKnight^
Joseph and John Mien, John Chambers, John and
Henry McCormick, Thomas and James Finney, Alex-
ander Swan, John Thorn and Thomas Mitchell. When
the war of independence was over, the German population
literally crowded out the Scotch-Irish, and, in a few
years, Covenanterism was completely exterminated.
The old log church was thus disposed of: "On Septem-
ber II, 1795, James Byers and James Wilson executors
of William Brown, Esq., deceased, of Paxtang, offered
for sale a log house near the residence of Mr. Brown,
and formerly occupied as a house of worship by the
Rev. Matthew Linn." It was subsequently used as a
sheep pen and but recently disappeared.

Derry. This society was located about nine miles
east of Paxtang and was first visited by the Rev.
John Cuthbertson in September, 1751, when he preached
and lodged at the house of David McNair. In October,.
1 75 1, he returned and preached, and called at the
house of Alexander Swan, on the Blue Mountain near
by, when he baptized James, son of John Thomson,
and Agnes, daughter of Alexander Swan. The principal
families here were those of John Thomson, Alexander

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 257

-Swan, Thomas Montgomery and David McNair. They
mostly worshipped with the people at Paxtang.

Lower Chanceford, York County. This place is
situated about twenty-two miles southeast of the city
of York, and in the section of country known as "The
Barrens." The Rev. John Cuthbertson preached at
Chamber's tavern, York, December 9, 175 1, and three
days afterward preached at Chanceford, at the house
of William Wilson. The first baptism here was that
of George, son of John Buchanan, April 15, 1752.
He frequently visited this society, for it was a large
one, and ordained William Gabby and Daniel Sinclair
ruling elders, March 27, 1771. After the organization
of the Reformed Presbytery in 1774, this society fell
under the charge of Mr. Cuthbertson with Octorara.
During the last few years of his life, Mr. Cuthbertson
preached principally in this society and generally at
the house of William Maughlin. His last sermon was
preached here September 20, 1790, and he died in the
following March. The names of the principal members
previous to 1774, were William Wilson, George, John
and William Buchanan, Hugh Ross, William Smith,
James Anderson, Robert Greer, Samuel Dickson, Elizabeth
Ayers, Joseph and John Brownlee, William Fullerton,
William Young, Samuel Nelson, John McMillan,
William Maughlin, William Nichol, Samuel Hawthorn,
Daniel Sinclair, John and Robert Duncan, William
Gabby, John Marlin, Daniel Sloan, John Reed, John
Patterson, William Mitchell, Alexander Ewing and
■George Henry. At the union in 1782, the whole con-

258 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

gregation went into the Associate Reformed Church, and^
in 1858, into the United Presbyterian Church.*

Rock Creek, Adams County. The old church
stood about one mile northeast of the present site of
Gettysburgh. It was early erected and was used until
1805. There were a few Covenanters here previous to
1750, and they had a tent about two miles from David
Dinwiddle's, who lived near Marsh Creek. In some of
the early records the society was termed Marsh Creek,,
but the organization was known as Rock Creek, and
subsequently as Gettysburgh. When the Rev. John
Cuthbertson came to this country from Scotland in the
summer of 175 1, he was accompanied bv a colony of
Covenanters, among which was his brother-in-law,.
Archibald Bourns, who married Wattle Cuthbertson.
They settled at the base of the Blue Mountains on " The
Tract," near Gettysburgh. The descendants of the
family are now in connection with the Conococheague
congregation. The names of Archibal'd, John, Jeremy
and Anthony Burns were long connected with the
history of Covenanterism in that region. The Rev. John
Cuthbertson visited this vicinity immediately after his
arrival in this country. He first preached in the tent
about two miles from the house of David Dinwiddle,
September i, 1751. At this time he baptized Jean,
daughter of Thomas Anderson ; Isabel, daughter of
Robert McCullough ; Rose Ann, daughter of Joseph
Hutchison ; James, son of Joseph Broomfield ; and
Mary, daughter of David Dinwiddle. On November 3,
1752, Mr. Cuthbertson bought one hundred acres of
*Aikin's Sketch.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 259

land situated between Marsh Creek and Antietam.
David Dinwiddie and Jeremiah Morrow, father of the
late Governor Morrow, of Ohio, were ordained ruling-
elders, April 8, 1753. It is probable that the Rock
Creek congregation w^as regularly organized at this
time. The Rev. Alexander McDowell assisted Mr.
Cuthbertson at communion seasons, and this congrega-
tion made out a call for him, October 12, 1761, which
he declined. John Murphy and Andrew Branwood were
added to the session, May 16, 1764. At the organiza-
tion of the Reformed Presbytery in 1774, the Rev.
Alexander Dobbin assumed the charge of this flourishing
congregation. Previous to 1774, the principal members
of this congregation were Archibald Bourns, David and
Hugh Dinwiddie, Jeremiah Morrow, John Watt, Thomas
Wilson, Joseph Little, Thomas Anderson, Neil McKnight,
Robert McCuUough, Thomas Neillie, Joseph Hutchison,
Mary Silbuck, Joseph Broomfield,, John Murphy, Mary
Mair, Robert Stevenson, John Crook, Alexander
Patterson, Andrew Branwood, John Finney, James
Blackburn, John and William Morton. At the
union of 1782, with a few exceptions, the whole
congregation went with Alexander Dobbin into the
Associate Reformed Church, and, at the union in 1858,
it became a United Presbyterian Church, now located
in Gettysburgh. The ground then occupied by the
Covenanter congregation of Rock Creek has now become
historic as the Gettysburgh battle field and the National
Cemetery.

Cumberland and Franklin Counties. The societies
in these Counties are so intimately connected both in

26o HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

location and history that they will be considered
together as the branches of a single congregation
known to-day as "Conococheague." The following were
the places of preaching in Cumberland County as
early as 1750: Junkin Tent, West Pennsboro, Big
Spring, Carlisle, Stony Ridge, Newville and Ship-
pensburgh. In Franklin County the societies were
Lurgen, Roxbury, Strasburgh, Southampton and Greene,
Scotland, Rocky Spring, Fayetteville, Guilford, Green-
wood, Green Castle, Shady Grove, Waynesboro,
Mercersburgh and Hamilton. At these different places
there was usually a tent, consisting of a simple stand
with a shelter over it, under which the minister
stood, and a board set in between two trees for a
rest for the Bible. The people most probably had
some rude seats or logs on which to sit in front and
around the preacher. In later times the services were
held in orchards and barns, until meeting houses were
erected for the purpose. Since the union of 1782,
most of the Covenanters resided in Franklin County
and built churches respectively in Greenwood in 181 7;
in Scotland in 1825 ; and in Fayetteville in 1840.
JUXKIX Tent, in Cumberland County, was a preach-
ing place in 1751. It was first situated on the farm
of Joseph Junkin, near the present town of Kingston,
about nine miles from Carlisle, and eleven miles from
Harrisburgh. The tent was afterwards removed one
mile west to the farm of James Bell, who was a
ruling elder. The Rev. John Cuthbertson first visited
this place, August 20, 1751, and stopped at the house
of Walter Buchanan. He preached the following day

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 26 1

and baptized Joseph, son of Joseph Glendenning ; John,
son of Joseph McClelland ; and Jean, daughter of
Henry Swansie. Mr. Cuthbertson held his first com-
munion in America at this tent, August 23, 1752.
A preparatory fast day was observed, tokens of
admission to the table were distributed, and the
services on the Sabbath lasted nine hours. He par-
aphrased the Fifteenth Psalm and preached from John
3: 35. After the sermon he prayed fervently and the
people sang a Psalm. He then expounded the words
•of institution, fenced the tables, and the commu-
nicants came forward singing the Twenty-fourth Psalm.
After four tables were served he gave a parting
exhortation to the communicants. After an interval of
half an hour, he preached from John 16: 31. On
Monday he preached from Ephesians 5: 15. About
two hundred and fifty communed and they were
gathered from all parts of the country. To many it
was the first time they had gathered around a com-
munion table in America. No doubt it awakened
memories of other days and scenes across the sea,
and their tears were mingled with joy and gladness.
Such tangible evidences of the tender care of the
Good Shepherd strengthened every heart and quickened
every grace as they sang that triumphant song which
so often sustained and cheered their ancestors on the
moors of Scotland: —

God is our refuge and our strength,

In straits a present aid ;

Therefore, although the earth remove,

We will not be afraid.

The communions were dispensed yearly in the

16

262 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

principal societies and the majority of the members
attended each one. Walter Buchanan was ordained a
ruling elder, October 20, 1754. Previous to I774r
the following were the principal members at Junkin
Tent : Walter Buchanan, Joseph Junkin, John Leiper,
Samuel Gay, James McKnight, William and Isaac
Walker, Joseph McClelland, Henry Swansie, Samuel
and Adam Calyhoun, Joseph Gardner, Robert Bonner,
Alexander Lafferty, David Mitchell and William Rose.
After 1774, the Rev. Matthew Linn had charge of
this station, and, in 1782, the great majority went
into the Associate Reformed Church. The faithful
remnant joined with the societies in Franklin Count)-.
Carlisle. This was a preaching station visited by
the Rev. John Cuthbertson, November 10, 175 1, when
he preached at the house of Joseph Patterson, and
baptized Robert, son of Horace Bratton. Other
members were Andrew Griffin, Frank McNeickle, James
McClelland, William Patterson and Alexander Young,
There was preaching at Bk; Si'RINC;, situated about
four miles from Newville, at the house of Andrew
Ralston, August 22, 1751. On November 12, 1751,
Mr. Cuthbertson preached in the Pennsboro meeting
house near by, and baptized several children. After
1774, Rev. Matthew Linn had charge of this society.
Among the leading members at that time were Andrew
Ralston, Robert Gibson, Samuel Calhoun, James
McClurg. Andrew Giffin and Charles Kilgore. In
1782, they all went into the Associate Reformed
Church, and, in 1858, into the United Presbyterian
Church, and at the present time there is a large and

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 263

flourishing congregation of the latter body in Newville."
Previous to 1774, the principal preaching places in
Franklin County were Rocky Spring and Green Castle.
Rocky Spring was situated about four miles northeast
of Chambersburgh, and the tent was near the home of
George Mitchell. Mr. Cuthbertson preached here, August
24, 1 75 1, and the people got up a subscription paper for
preaching. He baptized Andrew and Moses, sons of
James Mitchell ; James and Eliza, children of James
Lowry ; Martha, daughter of James Thomson ; Sarah,
daughter of Joseph Mitchell ; and Rebecca, daughter
of Joseph McClurg, George Mitchell was ordained a
ruling elder April 8, 1753- The leading members of
the Rocky Spring society were Andrew, James, George
and Joseph Mitchell, John McCleary, James and John
Lowry, James Thomson, John Wylie, Joseph McClurg,
David Carson, James and Joseph Reed, John Sharp,
Joseph Espy and Thomas Cross. The majority of the
members went into the union of 1782, and it is due
to the memory of Alexander Thomson and John
Renfrew to say that they kept the Covenanter cause
alive and maintained the principles of the Church.
Among other faithful ones at this time were William
Galbraith, the only ruling elder, Thomas Paxton, James
Finney, Thomas Cross and Sarah Morrow. They
organized a society which is the original of the present
Conococheague congregation. In 175 1, Mr. Cuthbertson
visited a few families living in the vicinity of Green
Castle, among whom were those of George Reynolds,
George Clark and Samuel McColloch. They went into
*Dr. J. B. Scouller.

264 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

the union of 1782, and Matthew Linn was the pastor
of the Associate Reformed Church in that place. After
the disastrous union of 1782, the faithful Covenanters
of Franklin and Cumberland Counties gathered them-
selves into a General Meeting, which (Was usually held
at the house of Alexander Thomson, near the present
village of Scotland. Alexander Thomson, to whom more
is due than any other man for keeping the old blue
banner from trailing in the dust, deserves a passing
notice. He was a Scotchman, and sailed from Greenoch
in July, 1 77 1, and arrived in Boston, September lO,
1771- A Scotch colony was being organized for
Caledonia County, Vermont, while numerous others
were going to settle in South Carolina. He considered
the valley of the Kittatinny the most inviting, and
removed thither in 1773, purchasing five hundred acres
of land, embracing the site of the present village of
Scotland. These Covenanters here settled on the
Conococheague Creek and built saw, grist and sickle
mills. The house of Alexander Thomson was the
meeting place for worship and business, and where all
the distant members found hospitable entertainment.
The following were the

RULES OF ORDER FOR CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS.*
I. Let the meeting be constituted by prayer.
H. Let the former Presis (or the Clerk in his
absence) call for the Commissions.

in. Let a Presis be chosen by a vote of the

*For many of these hitherto unpublished documents the author was
under obligation to the late Samuel Rea Burns, of Scotland, Pa., whose
ancestors came with Rev. John Cuthbertson to this country in 1751.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 265

meeting : the former Presis taking the votes beginning
on his left hand, and in case of his absence let the
Clerk of the meeting proceed in the same manner,
and ye person having a majority of votes shall be
Presis.

IV. Let the Presis then take the chair ; call the
meeting to order, and call upon the Clerk to read
the Rules.

V. Let the Presis then pose the members with the
following queries: i. Do you carefully and con-
scientiously attend upon social meetings with your
brethren both on Sabbaths and week days when
deprived of more public ordinances ? 2. Are you
punctual and conscientious in maintaining the worship of
God in your family morning and evening in all the
parts thereof ; and also secret prayer at the same
seasons regularly.' 3. Have you observed the last day
of Fasting or Thanksgiving (as the case may be) ?
4. Do you endeavor to adorn the doctrines of Chris-
tianity by a life and conversation becoming the gos-
pel, and are you in habits of peace and friendship
with your brethren of mankind ? And are you satisfied
upon inquiry that the members of your society duly
attend the above duties .'

VI. Let the Clerk read the minutes of the preceed-
ing meeting and let unfinished business be taken up
in order.

VII. Let the Presis enquire if there is any more
business to come before the meeting, and when it
appears there is no furthur business, let him put the
question, "shall the meeting be concluded.'" And if

266 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

carried, let the meeting be concluded by prayer, i.
During the time the meeting is constituted, let no
person withdraw from the house without the consent
of the Presis. 2. Let no conversation be among the
members. 3. Let each member speak to the question
under consideration in rotation, beginning on the left
of the chair, and let each speaker stand and address
the Presis. 4. Let no motion be taken under consid-
eration until made and seconded. 5. The above Rules
shall be altered or amended from time to time as
the Meeting may judge proper.

FURTHUR RULES.

1. The most punctual attendance to the time of
meeting ; all the members being careful to assemble
precisely at the hour appointed, and if any shall be
absent after the constitution, he shall be censured,
unless his reasons be sustained by vote of the court.

2. After the constitution the first thing to be done
is the reading of the minutes of the last sederunt.

3. Unfinished business is always to be taken up as
first in order.

4. All papers presented to the court shall be filed
in the order in which they are read, being properly
numbered and endorsed accordingly.

5. Every proposition or question which appears to
be warmly litigated shall be stated in writing by the
mover thereof and given to the Presis.

6. No motion can be admitted unless it be pre-
viously seconded.

7. No personal reflections are in any case to be

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 267

suffered, whether they respect members of the court
or others.

8. A becoming gravity is to be observed by all
the members; no whispering is to be admitted, but
a close attention is to be paid to the matter in hand.

9. All prolix and declamatory harangues are to be
avoided ; the speaker confining himself exclusively to
the question.

10. No person shall be allowed a silent vote; but
all the neutrals shall be viewed as voting with the
majority.

11. In taking votes, the Presis shall begin with the
youngest members and proceed according to juniority.
[Sometimes they blind-folded them.]

12. No speaker is to be interrupted, except he be out
of order, or to correct mistakes or misrepresentations.

13. The votes by which a decision is made, shall
not be recorded unless at the request of one-third of
the members.

14. No member may leave the house without the
permission of the Presis.

15. No member is to return home so as not to
attend the termination of that session, without the
consent of two-thirds of the court.

16. The Clerk shall keep a faithful record of every
decision made by the court; the minutes of it shall
be read while the matter of it is fresh in the memory
of the members.

17. The Presis shall determine all questions of
order that shall arise during the session, and his
decision shall be submitted unto, unless it appears by

268 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

an appeal to the court a majority is against him.

The following is inserted as a form of commission
to the General Meetings :

" We, the society of Guilford, being met and
constituted by prayer, do appoint and commissionate
Anthony Burns, being one of our number and free
from public scandal so far as known to us, to go to
the Congregational Meeting, to be held at the house
of Alexander Thomson, on Wednesday, April ij, 1790,
and there in our name . to consent and agree to every
thing in agreeableness to the Word of God and Re-
formation Principles as attained to by the Church of
Scotland particularly between the years 1638 and 1649,
inclusive. Signed in our name and by our appointment,
"John Renfrew, Presis.
"Thomas Duncan, Clerk.''

For eight years after the defection of 1782, the
faithful Covenanters and witnesses for Christ in this
region were left as sheep without a shepherd. In
1790, they were cheered by the visit of the Rev,
James Reid of Scotland. On August 17, 1791, a
number of persons wishing to adhere to Reformation
attainments, met at the house of Alexander Thomson
and constituted themselves into a social capacity and
entered into the following resolutions :

I. "It was resolved that two societies for prayer
and Christian conference be erected to meet at such
convenient times and places as each society shall
from time to time agree upon, and that a General
Meeting be held at this place on the third Wednesday
of October next.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 269

2. " It is resolved that any person of a character
unknown to this society desiring to become a member,
shall bring a certificate from the society he has been
in communion with heretofore ; or in case he hath not
been in communion with any, then he shall bring a
character from his reputable neighbors."

On October 19, 1791, a large delegation was present
at the General Meeting, and, among others, the follow-
ing resolution was passed :

" It was resolved that the Rev. James Reid's former
letter be further pressed by John Renfrew and Robert
Kidd who were in correspondence with the Scottish
Presbytery."

These societies were endeavoring to secure the
services of the Rev. James Reid for pastor, but in this
they were unsuccessful. In the spring of 1793, the
Rev. William King, who had the year previously
emigrated to South Carolina, visited them and preached ;
and, at a General Meeting held August 17, 1793, they
resolved to " lay out money which belonged to the
meeting, and which amounted to ^10. 14s. lod., for
defraying the Rev. William King's expenses in coming
to visit them and laboring among them ; considering
it as agreeable to the intention for which the money
was collected." In the spring of 1794, the Rev. James
McKinney, recently from Ireland, visited them, and
they were so well pleased with his labors that in
October, f794, they sent the following petition to the
Reformed Presbytery of Ireland to have him trans-
ferred and settled in Conococheague :

2yO HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

••" To the RciniicDit mcmbeys of the Reformed Presbytery,
to meet xvhen and tvlierecver this may reach you :
"The humble petition of the Old Covenanters in
the Counties of Cumberland, Franklin, and parts
adjacent, humbly sheweth that your petitioners are,
and have been, for a long time in a very destitute
<:ondition as to the Gospel being administered among
us according to what we judge to be the pattern
showed us in the Mount; and having had the oppor-
tunity of having heard a member of your court, viz :
the Rev, James McKinney, for some time past ; and
we hope his labors have not been entirely without
their use among us, and that if he was to be settled
in these parts, he might still be farther useful in
calling the attention of this sleepy generation to their
duty. We do, therefore, through your medium, invite
him to remain and abide with us as our pastor, if
you shall see meet to lose him from his pastoral
relation in Ireland ; and hope in such love that you
will instruct the Committee here what measures they are
to adopt in order to bring said settlement to a regular
Presbyterial issue. We having at present no session,
and being in a very scattered situation, cannot be
supposed to write so formally as might otherwise be
expected. But we are convinced that you, as a court
of Christ, will stand when there is no formality in a
matter of this kind. Our situation is, at the present,
extremely pressing and loudly calls for aid from our
brethren in Britain and Ireland. Mr. McKinney him-
self, who has been among us, can, and we hope will,
more fully represent these matters to you than we

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2/ 1

•can at present pretend. In case you should see cause
to dissolve his pastoral relation in Ireland and consent
to his settlement among us, we' hope we shall yield
all dutiful obedience to him in the Lord, and afford
such worldly support to him as our circumstances
will admit of, not doubting but he will sympathize
with us and be willing to bear his share in the
•difficulties which at present effect us, until the Lord
shall be pleased to render us somewhat stronger,
which we hope might be the case in a short time
if the Lord was pleased to give us a fixed pastor ;
and, in the meantime, earnestly desiring the advance-
ment of the Redeemer's Kingdom with you, sym-
pathizing with you under the yoke of civil oppression,
we pray that in this our particular request, and in
all your other deliberations, you may be guided by
the blessed Head till you and us meet in that blessed
-General Assembly where the Lord God and the Lamb
Himself will be our common lamp.

"Signed in the name of our General Meeting, and

by their order, by

"William Guthrie, Presis.

"John Thomson, Clerk.
" ConococJieagiie, October, I79~l-

The sum subscribed amounted to about £2^, and the
list was signed by the following persons : Alexander
Thomson, John Renfrew, John Thomson, William
Erwin, James Stevenson, Thomas Paxton, Thomas
Duncan, John Steel, Jr., John Steel, Sr., John Guthrie,
John Walker, William Guthrie, William Crow, George
McClure, John P>wen, Samuel Patterson, David Cowan,

2/2 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

David Dickey. John White, Fii^la McClure, William
Speer, William Paton, Alexander McHaffy and Samuel
Sterling, The following were the eight societies com-
posing the General Meeting: Green and Southampton,.
Guilford, Green Castle, Mercersburgh, Strasburgh, Big-
Spring, Hamilton and Newton. At a meeting held at
Alexander Thomson's, September 15, 1795, the following
persons from the different societies were present and
endeavored to effect the permanent organization of a
congregation with the expectation of having the Rev.
James McKinney as the pastor: William Galbraith,
John White, John Renfrew, William Guthrie, John
Walker, John Steel, John Stevenson, Alexander
Thomson, William Love, Robert Davidson, Anthony
Burns, Thomas Dun'can, John Guthrie, Thomas Paxton,
William McCrea, William Speer, John Busel, David
Busel and John Thomson. The following were chosen
elders : John Renfrew, William Guthrie, John Thomson
and William Speer. At a meeting held April 20,
1796, a petition was received from the societies west
of the Allegheny mountains desiring a part of Mr.
McKinney 's time. For one-half his time the Conoco-
cheague people agreed to pay Mr. McKinney at the
rate of £12^. annually. They did not give up the
hope of securing Mr. McKinney, and continued their
petitions each year, until he settled permanently in
Duanesburgh and Galway, New York, in 1797. When
Thomas Donnelly, of South Carolina, began to preach
in 1799, he delivered about his first sermon at the
Red tent near Carlisle, and was greatly lacking in
confidence. He kept his eye constantly upon his little

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 273

Bible, scarcely looking his audience in the face at all.
An old lady who heard him that day, on being asked
after the sermon what she thought of the young
preacher, she replied, "He did pretty weel ; but he
read ower muckle." The congregation was formally
■organized by a Commission of the Reformed Presby-
tery in 1802, by the election of John Thomson, William
Guthrie, John Renfrew and James Bell, ruling elders.
The first sacrament of the Lord's Supper was dispensed
April 17, 1803, by Revs. William Gibson, Thomas
Donnelly, John Black and Alexander McLeod. It was
not until August 12, 18 16, that they enjoyed the
stated labors of a pastor, and, at that time,. the Rev.
Robert Lusk was ordained and installed in charge. His
time Avas thus divided : " One-fourth time at Newville
and Walnut Bottom ; one-fourth at Shippensburgh ;
one-fourth in Green township ; one-fourth at Lurgen
and Waynesboro, days for other places to be taken
out of the whole as occasion may serve." At this
time the elders were John Thomson, John Renfrew,
John Steel and John Scouller. About this time a log
church was erected at Greenwood, and in 18 18, the
Roxbury society was added to Shippensburgh. The
Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church met here
in 1 8 19. In 1821, several aggravated cases of occasional
hearing came up before the session for adjudication,
and two ladies were severely admonished for attending
a Methodist camp-meeting at Shippensburgh on a
week day. The ministry of Mr. Lusk was neither a
happy nor a prosperous one, and, on account of certain
monetary difficulties he was released from the charge,

274 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

October 15, 1823. The people then invited the Rev_
Samuel W. Crawford to supply them. On January
26, 1824, the Rev.. John Gibson, of Baltimore, moderated
in a call which was unanimous for Mr. Crawford.
The following were the signers of the call: John
Renfrew, John Thomson, John Steel, Jeremiah Burns,
John Brown, Samuel Renfrew, John Renfrew, Jr.,
Alexander Thomson, Hannah Thomson, Mary GilL
Ann Morrison, Ann McCloy, Nancy Renfrew, Sarah
Steel, Martha McCloy, Rebecca Steel, Elizabeth Ritchie.
Ann Thomson, Nelly Ann Steel, Samuel Hays, William
Stevenson and Samuel Thomson. The salary promised
was $300 in regular half-yearly payments. Mr. Craw-
ford accepted the call and was duly installed pastor
August 26, 1824. His time was thus divided: one-
third time in Waynesboro ; one-third at John Renfrew's ;
one-third at John Thomson's, and one day at James^
Kennedy's near Green Castle. In 1825, the present
stone church at Scotland was erected. Mr. Crawford
resigned the charge in May, 1831. During the con-
troversy and division of the Church in 1833, but a
few members left the Church. For eleven years they
remained without a pastor, notwithstanding repeated
efforts were made to obtain one. In 1840, the present
brick church in the town of Fayetteville was erected,,
and the preaching services were principally held here
and at Scotland. In the winter of 1842, the Rev.
Thomas Hanna, recently from Scotland, was installed
pastor. His labors were well received but interfered
with by ill health, and he resigned the charge in the
fall of 1844. In the fall of 1845, the Rev. Joshua

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 275

Kennedy was ordained and installed pastor. He revived
the cause in Cumberland County and the congregation
flourished under his ministrations. The elders at that
time were James Kennedy, John Renfrew and Samuel
Thomson. In addition to his pastoral work, Mr.
Kennedy opened a school for both sexes in Fayette-
ville in the spring of 1852, called the " Fayetteville
Academy and Seminary." At the close of the first
year, the female department was suspended for a time
until a large and commodious building was erected on
the same ground by a company of stockholders. The
school possessed a corps of efificient teachers and was
conducted successfully until i860, when Mr. Kenned)-
resigned the school and congregation and went as a
missionary to Florida. The school was discontinued
during the war, the building was sold and is now
used for a private dwelling.* Since i860, the Conoco-
cheague congregation has never enjoyed the labors of
a settled pastor. For twenty-eight years they have
been a vacancy, but have enjoyed almost constant
supplies. At different times the congregation has-
suffered in the reduction of its members by emigration.
The old people have passed away by death, and,
without a pastor, the young and baptized members
have not remained in the Church. Centering at the
Fayetteville church, with occasional preaching at Shady
Grove and Scotland, there are about thirty members
in full communion. The elders are John Kennedy and
Robert McCoy. Some of the members live a great
distance from the church, but at the communion
* History of Franklin County, Pennsylvaaia.

2/6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

season each summer they all gather around the Lord's
table and renew their vows of loyalty to Jesus after
the customs of their fathers.

Fulton County. There was a society at Licking
•Creek and Cove, in this County, near the Franklin
County line and about ten miles west of Mercers-
burgh, as early as 1748. It was sometimes called
Timber Ridge. The Wilson family were the principal
members, who afterwards migrated to Western Penn-
sylvania. The Rev. John Cuthbertson first visited this
society, November [9, 1751, preached at the house of
James Wilson, and baptized Hannah, daughter of James
McMihan ; Martha and James, children of Joseph
Martin ; George, son of Jo.seph Cochran ; Eliza, daughter
of John Wilson ; and Elizabeth, daughter of James
Wilson. James and George Wilson were ordained
ruling elders April 8, 1753, and John (lochrane was
added November i r, 1770. Among the members in
this vicinity previous to 1774, were James, John,
Joseph and George W^ilson, Robert McCullough, Joseph
Martin, James Irwin, James McMihan, Robert and
Adam McConnell, John and Joseph Cochrane, Joseph
McMeehan and James McClelland. On account of emi-
gration this society was discontinued and the few
remaining members worshipped with the societies of
Franklin County. The Rev. Joshua Kennedy, D. D.,
of Green Castle, has, through his father-in-law, Mr.
James Bell, some of the original tokens used by Rev.
John Cuthbertson and the societies in 1752. They
were made of lead, about a half an inch square, with
raised letters on both sides. On the one side are the

PRFSBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 277

letters "R. P.," and 011 the other, " L. S., 1752."
Mr. Kennedy also possesses the book-case used by
the Rev. James McKinney. The fertile Valley of
Cumberland once occupied by numerous and thrifty
Covenanter societies, at the present time contains but
the two branches of one small congregation worship-
ping at Fayetteville and Shady Grove. While the
Thomson and Renfrew famiHes were for over one hundred
years connected with the Church in this region, it is
sad to. relate that not one by the name of Thomson
is now in connection with the Church there. The
West has presented strong inducements to many and
while the cause is diminishing in the Cumberland
Valley, the Head of the Church is stretching forth
the curtains of her habitations in the boundless
country beyond the Mississippi even to the foot of
the Rocky Mountains.

BRADFORD COUNTY.

Ballibay. In the early part of the present
century a few Covenanters settled along the Sus-
quehanna and Wyalusing rivers, in Bradford County,
and not far from the New York line. They were
occasionally visited by a passing minister, but
were not organized into a congregation until the
winter of 1832, when, according to the appointment
of the Southern Presbytery of the Eastern Subordinate
Synod, the Rev. David Scott organized them into
the Wyalusing congregation by the ordination of
William Gamble and William Morrow, ruling elders.
In 1833, Mr. Gamble and some of the members went

J7

2/8 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

into the New School body and the congregation was
disorganized. Mr. Morrow and the remnant continued
faithful to the principles of the Church. For some
time they enjoyed the labors of Mr. Francis Gailey,
licentiate. They appreciated his labors, and, in 1838,
when he withdrew from the Church and proclaimed
himself the only faithful representative of the Cove-
nanter Church, he readily won their confidence and
they all followed him. Under his ministry they adhered
to Reformation principles, read their Bibles and the
old authors, but were lead to believe that all Churches
had ceased to be Churches of Chri.st by apostacy.
In 1859. having previously failed to obtain
ordination from any branch of the Christian Church,
Mr. Gailey wickedly assumed ministerial functions and
rebaptized all his followers. This opened their eyes,
and, finding that the Covenanter Church had been
basely misrepresented, they abandoned him and sought
a return to the Church of their fathers. Being far
distant from any congregation they were not cared
for until some had died and others had connected
with other denominations. A Commission of the New
York Presbytery, met at Ballibay, September 30,
1868, and received eight persons into Church priv-
ileges, among whom was Robert Morrow, the only
surviving member of the original organization. The
society was organized into the Ballibay congregation,
August 28. 1875. b}' the ordination of Dr. F. G.
Morrow and Richard Graham, elders, and John Branyen
and Newton J. Morrow, deacons. There were .seven
members in good and regular standing, and twelve

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 2/9

persons were received b)' profession of their faith. A
liberal subscription was raised for preaching and a
request granted for the moderation of a call. In 1877,
they called Mr. Robert McKinney. licentiate, who
died before any action was taken. B)- emigration,
death and defection the congregation was reduced, and
disorganized, June, 1886.

INDIANA COUNTY.
Clarksi!UR(;h. About the year 1820, Richard
Wasson and Andrew Stormont. emigrants from Ire-
land, settled near Kelly's station in this County.-'
They waited on the ministrations of the Rev.
John Cannon, of Greensburgh, and requested him
to come over and preach in this vicinity, which he
did on week days. Before any church was built,
Mr. ' Cannon usually preached in the barn of John
Coleman or in the orchard of James Gra)-. About
1825, an organization was effected in connection with
New Alexandria and Greensburgh, called Black Legs,
but afterwards changed to Clarksburgh. The first
elders were Moses Thomson and Robert Henry. The
first church was erected in 1831. Among the early
members of the Church at Clarksburgh are : Robert,
John and Mrs. Margaret Henry, Moses Thomson,
David, Robert and Alexander Henderson, John, Robert
and William Coleman. James Gray, Thomas, James
and Ann Gailey. Andrew, Samuel and Jane McCreery,
Daniel Euwer, Samuel Gilmore. Nancy White, John
McCurdy, John Morrison, Thomas Gemmil, James
McKelvy, Mrs. Martha Smith, Nathan Douthett, Samuel

* History of Indiana County, Pennsylvania.

28o HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and Mrs. Frances Barr, John and Mrs. Kirkpatrick
and Mrs. Kimball. The Rev. John Cannon continued
to preach here until his death in 1836. For seven
years the congregation was a vacancy occasionally
supplied, when, in 1843, in connection with Greens-
burgh, they enjoyed the pastoral labors of the Rev.
Samuel O. Wylie, until the fall of 1844. In 1847,
the Rev. Robert B. Cannon was installed, and he was
released in the spring of 1854. The following year
New Alexandria was added to the charge, and, in
the spring of 1856, the Rev. A. M. Milligan became the
pastor for one-fourth of his time. He was released
in the spring of 1866. Clarksburgh received a separate
organization, October 8, 1867, and the following
autumn they obtained the Rev. James A. Black as
the pastor. He revived the work by the organization
of a Sabbath School and a Missionary Society. In
1 87 1, the old church was removed, and a handsome
frame structure was erected near the old site. Mr.
Black demitted the charge in the spring of 1882,
since which time the Rev. John J. McClurkin has
been stated supply.

Bear Run and Mahoning. These societies are in
the northren part of the County and were formerly
connected with the Salem and Rehoboth congregations,
and were organized into a separate congregation in
the fall of 1870. It continued to be supplied by
Presbytery until the fall of 1874, when the Rev. John
F. Crozier became the pastor, and is in charge.
Among the old members here were David White,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IX AMERICA. 28 1

Alexander White, John McElwain, James Graham,
James Stewart, James Sharpe, Samuel Gilmore.
JEFFERSON COUNTY.
Rehoboth and Salem. For many years previous
to an organization, Covenanters scattered into small
groups all over this and the adjoining Counties
of Armstrong and Clarion. In the fall of 1847,
six of these societies were organized into a congre
gation and it was called " Rehoboth," because they
had plenty of room and they trusted that the
Lord would make them fruitful in the land. In the
spring of 1852, they succeeded in getting the Rev.
Robert J. Dodds for the pastor. His labors were very
extensive, as his people were distributed over an area
of about forty-five miles in length by thirty in breadth,
and many of them lived in distant parts of four
Counties. Mr. Dodds continued to labor here until
the spring of 1856, when he was chosen by Synod
as a missionary to Syria, In the spring of 1859, the
Rev. Thomas M. Elder became the pastor. The field
was too great and his health would not permit of so-
much travelling. The Presbytery then agreed to divide
the congregation, which they did in the fall of i860.
Three of the societies in the southern part of the
County retained the name of Rehoboth, and three m
the western part assumed the name of Salem. Mr..
Elder continued in charge of the Rehoboth branch,,
and, in the winter of 1862, the Rev. Armour J.
McFarland became the pastor of the Salem congrega-
tion. Houses of worship were erected in nearly all
the branches and the pastors distributed their time

282 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

among them. Mr. Elder re.signed his congregation in
the spring of 1866, and the cause languished. In 1874,
it was associated with the congregation of Bear Run
and Mahoning, in Indiana County, and has since enjoyed
the faithful labors of the Rev. John F. Crozier. The
Salem congregation grew rapidly under the care of Mr.
McFarland, there being two principal places of preach-
ing— the Bethel branch near Baxter station, and
Belleview in the village of Stanton. Mr. McFarland
was released from the Salem congregation in the spring
of 1882. For five years they were vacant, but enjoyed
almo.st constant preaching. In the summer of 1887,
the Rev. Harry W. Temple was ordained and installed
the pastor. The names of McFarland, Hill, Campbell,
Millen, Reed, Becket, Hanna, Sterritt, Dill, McKee,
Sharpe, McGif^n, Stewart, Martin, Temple, Wallace,
White, Graham, Mclsaac, Fry, and others, have been
connected with the eldership and the best interests of
the cause in Jefferson County.

WESTMORELAND COUNTY,

New Ale.\AN1)RIA. The first Covenanter to settle in
this vicinity was Samuel I'atterson, who emigrated to
this region in the closing years of the past century.*
In 1800, the Rev. John Black was settled in the vicinity
of Pittsburgh and occasionally preached at Greensburgh.
To wait upon his ministrations Samuel Patterson rode
ten miles, and soon afterward" Mr. Black preached twice
a year in Mr. Patterson's house near New Alexandria.
In the course of time small societies of Covenanters
sprang up in all parts of the County and became the

*A'. P. d- C, 1871, p. 363; 1872, p. 60.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 283

nucleus of the present New Alexandria congregation.
A congregation was organized at Greensburgh, by the
Rev. John Black, about 18 13, and Robert Brown, w^ho
did more for the cause in that vicinity than any other
man, was ordained a ruling elder. He was a liberal
supporter of the cause and his home furnished hospitable
entertainment for all the ministers and the members
from a distance. Rev. John Cannon became the first
pastor in the fall of 18 16, and he continued in this
relation until his death in 1836. New Alexandria
became a regular preaching station in 18 19, when the
Associate Reformed congregation was a vacancy. A
subscription paper was gotten up for ten days' preaching
and Mr. Cannon gave them that much time from his
labors in Greensburgh. In 1822, a few families from
the Associate Reformed and Presbyterian Churches joined
the Covenanters, and the congregation of New Alexandria
was organized. The Greensburgh church was built in
1823, and Rev. Alexander McLeod, of New York, preached
the first sermon in it. After the death of Mr. Cannon
in 1836, the Rev. James R. Willson was called to the
pastorate, but declined. In the fall of 1839, the Rev,
James Milligan, of Vermont, was installed pastor. In
1 84 1, Greensburgh joined with Clarksburgh and secured
the labors of the Revs. S. O. Wylie and R. B. Cannon
until 1854. Mr. Milligan continued his labors in the
flourishing congregation of New Alexandria until the
year 1848, and, the same fall, his son, the Rev. A. M,
Milligan, succeeded him. The latter was translated to
Philadelphia in 1853, and for three years New Alexandria,
and for two years Greensburgh, were vacancies. In 1855,

284 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

they were re-united under one charge and recalled the
Rev. A. M. Milligan. He accepted, and was installed
pastor May 6, 1856. In the spring of 1866, Mr. MiUigan
was released from the charge. The following year
Clarksburgh received a separate organization, and New
Alexandria and Greensburgh were regarded as one
charge. Rev. Thomas A. Sproull was installed pastor
in June, 1868, and was removed by death, April 8, 1878,
The Rev. James L. Pinkerton was installed pastor in
May, 1 88 1, and, after two years of labor, was compelled
to resign the charge on account of bodily affliction.
The Rev. John W. F. Carlisle was ordained and installed,.
June 20, 1884, and released January 26, 1888. An
occasional day is given to Greensburgh, but the great
majority of the members are in the vicinity of New
Alexandria. This congregation has always possessed
good houses of worship. The first building occupied
was a log church built about 18 10, and was used by all
denominations as a union church. In 1835, the congre-
gation erected a substantial brick church, which, in 1870,
gave place to the present well-appointed building. The
old gravej-ard contains the dust of many a worthy
Covenanter who devoted his life to the cause of* Christ
in this community. Long will be remembered the names
of Johnston, Brown, Elder, Stewart, Du Shane, Henry,
McClure, Dornon, Beattie, Nevin, Gemmil, Lowry, Steele,
Hice, Temple, Purvis. Shaw, Allen, Simpson, Patterson,
Thompson, Miller. Cannon and Gra}-.

Brookland. Under this heading will be included all
the societies which have been known b\- different names,
and located in the north-western portion of Westmoreland

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 285.

County and along the Allegheny River. This is an old
settlement of Covenanters.* The pioneer of this region
was Robert Sproull, the father of the Rev. Dr. Sproull of
Allegheny. About 1796, he emigrated from Franklin
County and settled in this vicinity within one mile of
the Allegheny River. Here for twenty years he main-
tained the principles of the Church alone. In 18 17, he
was joined by David Houston, who married Mrs. Scott^
and these families organized a praying society. In 1820,
Thomas Sproull, nephew of Robert Sproull and father of
Revs. T. C. and W. J. Sproull, acceded to the society.
About the same time, John Dodds, father of the Rev.
Josiah Dodds, from the Secession Church of Ireland, and,
in 1821, John Bole, also from Ireland, strengthened the
society by their membership. Revs. John Black and
John Cannon supplied them occasionally and they were
organized into a congregation in 1822. Rev. Jonathan
Gill was the first pastor, installed October 23, 1823.
The society grew rapidly, and, in 1830, they were joined
by the families of Robert Armstrong, Joseph McKee,
James Bole, Archibald Dodds and Joseph McElroy from
Ireland. During the unpleasant controversy and subse-
quent division of the Church in 1833, the congregation
was sorely tried and some of the members went with
Mr. Gill into the New School body. The congregation
as a whole stood by the old flag and maintained the
principles of the Church. At this time the elders were
Ebenezer Gill, Joseph Cowan, Samuel Milligan, Thomas
Dunn and Joseph McElroy. Joseph McElroy was the
delegate to the Synod of 1833, and walked the whole
*/i. P. &= C, 1886, p. 50.

286 HISTORY 0¥ THE REFORMED

way to Philadelphia to attend that* notable session. Rev.
Hugh Walkinshaw was installed in April, 1835. The
-congregation then was made up of man)^ branches, and,
at the division of the extensive charge in 1841, both
branches were anxious to obtain the pastor, but he
remained with those on the east side of the Allegheny
until his death, April 19, 1843. During his ministry the
ruling elders were James Dougherty, John Rowan,
Thompson Graham and Robert Euwer. Rev. Oliver
Wylie was installed June 24, 1846. He did not possess
a robust constitution, and was released in the fall of 1851.
During his pastorate the ruling elders chosen were
Joseph Dodds and Samuel Henning. In June, 1854, the
Rev. Robert Reed was installed pastor. The extensive-
-ness of the field had been somewhat curtailed by the
organization of new congregations, and, beside the
Brookland charge he ministered to the branches of
Manchester and North Washington. In the Manchester
branch were the Rowans, Hunters, Andersons and
Nelsons. Another society was composed of the Cope-
lands, Boyds, Reeds and Millers. The old log church
was soon abandoned and a handsome brick edifice was
erected. The elders during Mr. Reed's pastorate were
David Armstrong, William Copeland, R. C. McKee,
John Reed, Alexander Miller, John McKee, David
McElroy, Samuel McCrum and A. Dodds. In 1870, the
<:ongregation was reduced nearly one hundred members
by the organization of the Manchester and Parnassus
congregation. The Manchester branch is five miles east
of Parnassus. Mr. Reed continued in charge of the
Brookland congregation, and Middletown in Butler County

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 287

was attached to his charge. The Key. Josiah M. Johnston
was installed pastor of the newly organized congregation
at Parnassus in June, 1871. He was a popular preacher,
but in less than two years he resigned the charge and
left the communion of the Church. In June, 1874, the
present pastor, the Rev. James C. McFeeters, was installed
in charge. Rev. Robert Reed resigned the Brookland
congregation in the spring of 1882, and, after receiving
supplies for four years, the charge was united to
Parnassus under Mr. McFeeters, November, 1886, and
the Middletown branch was given a separate existence.
The elders are A. B. and S. B. Copeland, R. A. Arm-
strong, Robert Dodds, John Reed, John Hunter and
Alexander Miller. Brookland has furnished the Church
no less than eleven ministers, twenty ruling elders and
several missionaries.

BUTLER COUNTY.

Middletown. This small society is situated about
twelve miles northeast of the town of Butler. It was
organized about 1825, and was under the pastoral care
of the Rev. Thomas C. Guthrie. After 1833, it was
under the care of the Slippery Rock congregation and
ministered unto b}^ Revs. James Blackwood, Thomas
Hanna and J. C. Smith. It was known as the Sunbury
branch and subsequently as North Washington. In
1869, it was annexed to the Brookland congregation
and under the care of the Rev. Robert Reed. He
demitted the charge in the spring of 1882. and for
four years the)^ only received an occasional day of
preaching and the dispensation of the sacrament once
a year. In November, 1886, they were given a separate

288 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

organization. The church is a comfortable frame one
situated in the village of Middletown.* Among the old
families of this society were the Dunns, Doughertys,
Euwers, Barbers, Gills and Osbornes. In later years
the leading spirit was John Osborne, whose house was
always open for the entertainment of the friends of the
cause. The elders are Robert McCracken and Peter
C. Young. Henry Blair, Thomas Banks and Mrs.
Osborne are also among the loyal members of this
congregation.

Pine Creek and Union. This congregation lies-
principally in Butler County and about thirty miles
northeast of Pittsburgh. All the societies lying along
the Allegheny and its tributaries were a part of the
charge of the Rev^ John Black as early as iSoo.f In
1807, the Rev. Matthew Williams was installed pastor
of these branches northeast of Pittsburgh. They were
eight in number and scattered over several Counties.
He was almost constantly in the saddle, reaching places-
of preaching in the then thinly settled courtry, part of
which was an almost unbroken forest. In 181 5, the
congregation was divided, and Mr. Williams now con-
fined his labors more particularly to Pine Creek, Union
and Deer Creek. He removed his family to Pine
Creek and continued in this field until shortly before
his death. The ministry of Mr. Williams was remarkably
successful in the gathering of a large congregation, and
they were bound together by the closest ties. Often
as many as three hundred gathered around the com-
munion table and those were the seasons of festive

*R. P. & C, 1883, p. 20. f Covenanter, Vol. 3, p. 278.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 289

joy. Mr. Williams had an able session composed of
James Magee, John Glasgow, William Wright, Samuel
Sterrett, Joseph Douthett, James Miller, Robert Ander-
son and David Dickey. The original house of worship
was very primitive in its style of architecture and
simple in construction. It was a log house with a
clap-board roof fastened down by cross-beams and had
very small windows. They usually had no fire, and
one day when it was very cold and a heavy snow
upon the ground, no one grumbled, but Andrew Barr
remarked at the close of a long service, " We were
not troubled with mosquitoes to-day."* In 1826, the
Rev. Thomas C. Guthrie became the pastor. In 1833,
he and about one-half of the congregation became
identified with the New School body. The faithful
remnant were now left without a pastor, but for two
years were supplied by Presbytery. In 1835, the Rev,
Hugh Walkinshaw was installed pastor, and, at the
division of the congregation in 1841, he chose the
Brookland branch, and Pine Creek was again a
vacancy. In June, 1843, the Rev. John Galbraith, who
now remains at North Union, was installed the pastor.
There were two places of preaching and both became
large societies. The elders were John and Robert Dodds,
Thompson Graham and James Campbell. In 1870, the
societies each received a separate organization and Mr.
Galbraith remained pastor of the North Union branch.
The Pine Creek and Union branch remained a vacancy
for six years. In May, 1876, the Rev. Alexander
Kilpatrick, the present pastor, was installed in charge.

*Rev. J. B. Williams in Banner, 1877, p. 224.

290 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Among the old families in this region were those of
the Magees, Douthetts, Glasgow's, Millers, Andersons,
Creswells, Arbuthnots, Campbells, Wrights, Crowes,
Forsythes, McKinneys, SprouUs, Dodds, Deans, Cunning-
hams, Gillelands, Sterretts, and others. It is said that
Mrs. Penninah Glasgow and Margaret Cunningham were
very useful in .social meetings and in giving the
children instruction in the doctrines of salvation. The
people lived in Arcadian simplicity and were noted for
their piety and integrity.

VEX.\N(;0 COUNTY.

On. CriY. Not a few Covenanters were attracted
to this city and region during the oil excitement, and
sufificient members being gathered together they were
organized into a congregation in the summer of 1865.
They then erected a house of worship and asked for
the moderation of a call. Rev. David McFall was
installed pastor in May, 1871, and remained two years.
For ten years it was a vacancy, during which time
it was greatl)' reduced in numbers. The)' manifested
an enterprizing spirit, however, and made out several'
calls. Uniting with Oil Creek they succeeded in get-
ting a pastor in June, 1884, when the Rev. J. A.
F. Bovard settled among them for part of his time.
The v^enerable elder William Magee has been the lead-
ing spirit, and among other representative men might
be mentioned John Quinn, Joseph G. Garrett, William
Thompson, Robert J. Brown and John Love.
CRAWFORD COUNTY.

Oil Creek. This small congregation is situated
seven miles north of Titusville and twenty-fiive miles

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 291

from Oil City. The four societies of Perry, Oil Creek,,
Conneautville and Sugar Lake applied and received an
organization, February 14, i860, and it was called
Oil Creek, as this society was the largest and most
central. In later years Conneautville received a separate
existence as a mission station, and is now defunct.
Perry and Sugar Lake were ultimately abandoned, and
the preaching was held at Oil Creek, where a small
frame church was erected. The Rev. Daniel Reid w^as
installed pastor in December, 1861, and was removed
by death in March, 1875. I'or "i"^ years the con-
gregation was occasionally supplied, and, in the sum-
mer of 1884, uniting with Oil City, secured a part of
the time of the Rev. J. A. F. Bovard. Among the
elders and members Avere R. J. Brown, Hugh . McDill,.
Jacob Boggs. Henry Wright, Marcus Stewart, William
Steele, James Moody, Robert P. Randall, Thomas
Pollock and George Dunlap.

Adamsville. This was for many )'ears a mission
station, under the care of the Slippery Rock congrega-
tion, and subsequently under that of Springfield. It
was organized into a distinct congregation in Novem-
ber, 1873. By the death of elder Thomas McFeeters
the congregation was disorganized in October, 1874,
and the members were re-certified to the Springfield
congregation. They have a house of \\'orship and are
regarded as a mission station. William Blair, William
Steel and Thomas Hays were old members.
MERCER COUNTV.

Springfield. This was long one of the numerous
branches of the Slippery Rock congregation.* As

*Rev. J. C. Smith in R. P. &^ C, 1885, pp. 147, 172.

^92 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

■early as 1 82 5, those living in this vicinity were
•organized into a society, and, in 1828, became the
Mercer branch of the Shenango and Neshannock con-
gregation. In 1832, the Rev. A. W. Black became
the pastor, who, in 1833, with many of the people,
went into the New School body. In 1834, the remnant
were attached to the Slippery Rock congregation under
the pastorate of the Rev. James Blackwood. The elders at
this time were Samuel and William Rodgers, Robert
Allen, Sr., and Robert Allen, Jr. In 1838, they were
included in the Little Beaver congregation and enjoyed
the labors of the successive pastors of that field.
Springfield, Sandy and Greenville were organized into
a separate congregation in the summer of 1852. The
first pastor was the Rev. John J. McClurkin, installed
.September, 1854, and remained until (3ctober, 1873.
In June, 1877, the Rev. James R. Wylie became the
pastor, and resigned April 10, 1888. Among the elders
may be named William and Samuel Rodgers, Thomas
Barr, William Cochran, William Hunter, Robert and
■Cochran Allen. James, S. R. and A. C. McClelland,
J. R. McElroy and J. C. Montgomery.

Cfxtekvii.le. This congregation is situated in the
north-west corner of Mercer County and in early times
was the Ryefield branch of the Slippery Rock con-
gregation. Previous to 1833, it was a branch of the
Shenango and Mercer congregation under the pastoral
care of the Rev. A. W. Black. In 1834, the Rev.
James Blackwood became the pastor. The old church
stood in a rye field about two miles from the present
two of Centerville, and was often call the " Granary."

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 293

The elders at this time were Joseph Kennedy, Thomas
Blair and J. Campbell. In 1852, the Rev. Thomas
Hanna became the pastor and continued in this relation
for nine years. In 1863, the Rev. J. C. Smith became
the pastor, with other branches. In 1867, Centerville
and Sunbury (now Middletown) were made mission
stations. In 1869, Middletown was attached to Brook-
land, and Centerville continued a mission station until
1 87 1, when it was attached to the New Castle con-
gregation. The Rev. S. J. Crowe became the pastor
in May, 1872. Centerville was organized into a distinct
congregation, September, 1879, and Mr. Crowe con-
tinued pastor until his resignation in April, 1881, at
which time the congregation was attached to that of
Springfield. Rev. James R. Wylie was installed pastor
in July, 1882, and resigned in November, 1887. The elders
are Robert McKnight, William McKee, William Jack
and Hiram Snyder. The Kennedys, Blairs, Fishers,
and other old families, abounded in hospitality.

LAWRENCE COUNTY.

Shenango. The first pioneer in Shenango was Samuel
Rodgers who settled here in 1798.* He was soon
followed by Hugh Cathcart, Thomas and Samuel Hays,
Thomas Smith and William Campbell. They formed a
praying society and the Rev. John Black occasionally
visited them, Samuel Hays was the ruling elder. The
societies subsequently organized at Mercer and Neshan-
nock were associated with this, and enjoyed the labors
of Revs. Robert Gibson and George Scott. These were

■*Wm. Cochran in R. P. c- C, 1885, p. 176.
J8

294 HISTORV OF THE REFORMED

organized into a separate congregation, and the Re\ .
Andrew W. Black was installed the pastor, Januar)-
i8, 1832. In 1833, the pastor and the majority of
the congregation became identified with the New
School bod}- and held the church property. Those who
remained true to the distinctive principles of the
Church were the families of Samuel Rodgers, Samuel
Cochran, Reed and William Porter, Charles Love and
George Logan— in all about twenty members. In 1834,
they were associated with the Greenville branch of the
Slippery Rock congregation and enjoyed the labors of
the Rev. James Blackwood. In 1838, they were attached
to the Little Beaver congregation and subsequently
under the pastoral care of Revs. Joseph W. Morton
and Samuel Sterrett. In 1852, they were attached to
the Springfield congregation and under the pastoral
care of Revs. J. J. McClurkin and J. R. Wylie. At
Greenville there are about forty members. In 1865,
the old church building was sold and they worshipped
at Adamsville. Among the old members were William
and Robert Rodgers, William Porter, William Cochran,
Thomas McFeeters, Elizabeth Mathers, Nancy Love,
Jane Porter and Jane McElhaney.

Slippery Rock. This congregation is situated
principall}- in Crawford County, and has been known
at different times by different names.* The branches
peculiar to this, and not to other congregations, were
Camp Run, Harlansburgh and Portersville. The first
preaching at Harlansburgh was held in the bar room
of the hotel, and afterwards in the Baptist church,

*Rev. J. C. Smith in A'. /'. d- C, 1885, pp. 147, 172.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 295

until James Martin was sprinkled, and then the breth-
ren told them to hunt other quarters. All these
branches were under the pastoral care of the Rev.
John Black until 18 14, when they were included under
the Little Beaver congregation. Rev. Robert Gibson
became the pastor in 18 19, and was released in 1830.
In 1 83 1, Rev. George Scott became the pastor, and,
in 1833, he and some of the members went into the
New School body. In the spring of 1834, the Rev.
James Blackwood became the pastor. The elders within
the bounds of the present congregation were James
Wright and Samuel Sterrett of Camp Run ; Thomas
Willson and Thomas Speer of Harlansburgh. About
1836, Harlansburgh dropped its name and was known
as Slippery Rock and Hautenbaugh. In 1838, churches
were built in these places, but the one in Hauten-
baugh was never finished and was abandoned. Mr.
Blackwood died in 1851. During his pastorate William
Wright, Matthew Stewart, John Love and James
Anderson were ordained elders. In 1852, the Rew
Thomas Hanna became the pastor and remained in
charge nine years. The Camp Run branch was
abandoned, and here dwelt the Methenys, Sterretts,
Wrights and McElwains. In the spring of 1863, the
present pastor, the Rev. J. Calvin Smith was installed.
At this time the branches were Slippery Rock, Porters-
ville, Hautenbaugh and Lackawannock. The elders
were Thomas and Robert Speer, David Pattison,
A. F. Kennedy, Thomas Young, Robert Wylie, Robert
McCasIin, J. B. McElwain, George Magee, George
Kennedy and Dr. J. M. Balph. In 1871, Hautenbaugh

296 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and Lackawannock were included in the New Castle
congregation, and Slippery Rock and Portersville now
compose the organization. In 1833, Thomas Willson
was the delegate to Synod in Philadelphia , and he
walked all the way to attend that notable session.
Such men as Thomas Willson, George Magee, Dr.
Cowden, Thomas Speer, William Boyd, and others,
were conductors on the Underground Railway and
fearless advocates of the cause of the oppressed slave.
New Castle. A society of Covenanters was organ-
ized in the vicinity of this city as early as 1825,
and was under the pastoral care of Revs. Robert
Gibson and George Scott. In 1833, some of the
members went into the New School body. In 1834,
the Rev. James Blackwood became the pastor of the
congregation of which this was a branch, and David
Pattison was the elder. In 1852, the Rev. Thomas
Hanna became the pastor, and during his ministry
George Boggs and Robert Speer were added to the
eldership. In 1863, the Rev. J. C. Smith began to preach
a part of his time in this field and continued in this
relation for seven years. The congregation was
regularly organized, January 9, 1871. The elders
installed at this time were Robert Speer, David and
D. C. Pattison. Rev. S. J. Crowe was the first pastor
installed in May, 1872, and built up a flourishing
congregation. He demitted the charge in April, 1881.
The Rev. J. Milligan Wylie was installed in June,
1883, and released in December, 1887. Rev. W.
R. Laird was installed pastor in May, 1888. The first
church building was erected during Mr.* Hanna's

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 297

pastorate and was then situated in the suburban town
of Reynoldsville. It is a comfortable frame building and
now within the limits of the stirring city of New
Castle. Other elders are William Boyd, Robert
McKnight, P. A. Mayne and Dr. T. J. Blackwood.
BEAVER COUNTY.

Little Beaver. This once widely scattered congre-
gation is now concentrated, and worships in a comfort-
able church building in the town of New Galilee. As early
as 1804, a few families were residing within the limits
of this County, and in 1805, they were joined by
James Cook from Canonsburgh. The society continued
to grow and was occasionally visited by Rev. John
Black. It was organized into a regular congregation
in 1 8 14, and for five years enjoyed supplies. The
first pastor was the eloquent Robert Gibson, installed
in September, 1819, and for eleven years he continued
to draw large audiences wherever he preached, and
built up a flourishing congregation. He resigned the
extensive field in October, 1830, on account of
impaired health. The next pastor was the Rev. George
Scott, installed in April, 1831. At the division of
the Church in 1833, lie, and many of the congrega-
• tion, went into the New School body, but the
remnant retained the church property. This, however,,
so reduced their members that they were attached to.
the Slippery Rock congregation.* The elders who.
stood fast to the principles of the Church were James;
Cook, John and James Young, and James McAnlis..
The Rev. James Blackwood was installed the pastor;

*Rev. J. C. Smith in R. P. 6^ C, 1885, p. 147.

298 HISTOKV OK THE REFORMED

with other branches, in May, 1834, and during his
pastorate Robert Gray and Robert Gilmore were added
to the session. In October, 1838, Little Beaver and
the adjacent societies in Ohio, were organized into a
separate congregation. The Rev. Joseph W. Morton
was installed the first pastor in November, 1845, a"<^
was released in June, 1847, ^vhen he was chosen as
a missionary to Haj^ti. Rev. Samuel Sterrett was
installed pastor in June, 1848, and remained in charge
until May, i860, when Little Beaver became a distinct
congregation and he retained the branches in Ohio.
For four years they received supplies. Rev. Nathan
M. Johnston was installed in April, 1864. He remained
in charge twenty-two years, during which time the
congregation grew extensively and a new church
building was erected in the town of New Galilee,
Mr. Johnston resigned the charge in June, 1886,
and Rev. James R. Wylie was installed pastor in May, 1888.
Among the families long connected with the Church
in this vicinity are those of Cook, McAnlis, Porter,
^.Calderwood, Young, Gray, Gibson, Gilmore, Duff,
^Carson, Qua, Campbell, McGeorge, Dodds, Boggs, Patter-
•son, Acheson and Sharp.

Beaver Falls. The first Covenanter preaching in
the city of Beaver Falls was given by the Rev. N,
M. Johnston in the winter of 1869, when only one
member of the Church lived there. This, and the
station of Rochester, received an occasional day, and, for
some time previous to the organization, Beaver- Falls
enjoyed services regularly once a month. The con-
gregation was organized November 10, 1874, with

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 299

twent)'-four members, at which time Robert Paisley,
John Cook and J. D. McAnlis were chosen ruling
elders. Rev. Robert J. George, the present pastor,
was installed in June, 1875. The same year they
purchased a frame building, which has since been
replaced by the present comfortable and beautiful
edifice. Mission and pastoral work have rendered this a
most flourishing congregation and a center of influence
in the Church. Since the organization, W. R. Sterrett,
R. A. and R. J. Bole, and William Pearce have been
added to the eldership.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY,

Pittsburgh and Allegheny. The vicinity of these
two cities was very early settled by an element strongly im-
bued with Presbyterianism, and a few Covenanters removed
into this region from beyond the sea and the Allegheny
mountains. The Rev. John Cuthbertson speaks of being
in Pittsburgh in the fall of 1779, but mentions no
names. Previous to 1797, the most of the Covenanters
resided at the "forks of the Yough." In the fall of
1799, and shortly after his licensure, the Rev. John
Black was assigned to labor among the societies west
of the Allegheny mountains and in the vicinity of
these cities. When Mr. Black first came to this part
of the country as a preacher, he settled on a farm
about twelve miles east of Pittsburgh, in what was
known as the Thompson Run society. On the corner
of this farm a log church was built and a graveyard
surrounded it. He afterwards removed to the city of
Pittsburgh, and the property was held by Synod. A
congregation centering around Pittsburgh was organized

300 HISTORV OF THE REFORMED

under the general name of "Ohio," and Rev. John Black
was installed the pastor, December i8, 1800." The
services at the ordination were held in the old Court
House on Market street west of the Diamond, Pitts-
burgh, and were conducted by Revs. James McKinney
and Samuel B. Wylie, For two or three years the
congregation worshipped in the old Court House and
also in the Evangelical Lutheran Church at the corner
of Sixth and Smithfield streets. In 1803, the famous
Oak Alley church was built, which stands near Liberty
street and not far from the present Union Depot,
Here the congregation harmoniously worshipped for
thirty years. Among the first corps of elders were
John Hodge, William Gormley, John Armstrong, John
Aikin, John Cowan, James McVickars and Thomas.
Smith. In after years there were added to the session
Alexander Harvey and Samuel Henry. At the division
of the Church in August, 1833, Dr. Black, and the
great majority of the members, departed from the
distinctive principles of the Church and went into the
New School body. They also retained the church
property. In fact there were only about thirteen
members who adhered to the principles, and they were
of the poor and less influential of the former con-
gregation. From these few and poor, but true, witnesses
of the Reformation, four large and wealthy congrega-
tions have sprung, while the New School brethren are
about extinct in Pittsburgh. The congregation was

*Rev. J. W. Sproull in R. P. &- C, 1884, p. 173. Memoir of Dr. A.
McLeod, p. 51. Presbyterian Historical Aliiianac, Vol. 2, p. 182 ; Vol. 5, p.
404. Dr. Sproull's Sketches.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 30I

re-organized September 9, 1833, with thirteen members.
On the first Sabbath of December, 1833, the first
communion was conducted by Revs. John Cannon,
James Blackwood and Thomas Sproull, and the services
were held in the Associate Reformed Church in
Allegheny. One hundred and twenty communicants
sat down at the table of the Lord, and they were
collected from the societies in the vicinity. Samuel
Henry and Alexander Harvey were the only elders
who adhered to the principles, and they were continued
in office in the new organization. Rev. Thomas Sproull
was installed the pastor, May 12, 1834. Being without
a church building, for two years they worshipped in
other churches and halls, and, after a good deal of
discussion about a location, they finally agreed to erect
a church at the corner of Lacock and Sandusky
streets in Allegheny, which they did in 1836. Andrew
Gormley insisted that they should erect the church in
Pittsburgh, because if they did not they would lose
the Oak Alley property which rightfully belonged tO'
them. When the case came into the civil courts and
was tried in 1855, Andrew Gormley was found to be
correct, and the rightful owners lost the property by
a change of name and location. There is something
in_ a name. William Haslett, John Campbell, Hugh
Harvey and William Adams were added to the session,.
October i, 1836. For thirty years the congregation
continued to worship in the old church in Allegheny,
during which time James Carson, Robert Adams,
Robert McKrtight, H. A. Johnston, David Gregg, George
Boggs, Thomas Newell, Daniel Euwer, Henry Stewart,

302 HIsrORV OF THE REFORMED

Isaac McKenry, W. C. Bovard, John Boggs and William
Wills were added to the eldership. In October, 1865,
fifty-eight members were certified to form the Pitts-
burgh congregation, and Robert Glasgow, Alexander
and Robert Adams were chosen ruling elders. Rev.
A. M. Milligan became the first pastor of the newly
organized Pittsburgh congregation in May, 1866. They
worshipped for a short time in the City Hall, and for
four years in the Fourth Ward School House on Penn
street. In 1870, the present commodious church build-
ing on Eighth street, below Penn, was erected. In
1866, Dr. S. A. Sterrett and John A. McKee, and in
1 87 1, Daniel Euwer and Robert McKnight were added
to the session. Subsequently Samuel McNaugher and
Samuel M. Orr were chosen elders. P^or nineteen
years Dr. Milligan preached with great power and
success in Pittsburgh. His health failed in 1884, and
he died of an incurable disease in May, 1885. In
October, 1887, Rev. David McAllister was installed
pastor. The congregation sustains a mission in
Allegheny, a school for Chinese and mutes, and has
a flourishing Sabbath School. This is one of the
largest, wealthiest and most influential congregations in
the Church. Among other influential members aside
from the eldership are James R. McKee, John , R.
Gregg, James S. Arthurs, John Tibby, Matthew Tibby,
John D. Carson, Dr. William Hamilton, Daniel Chestnut,
James McAteer, John Hice, Samuel Sloane, William M.
Dauerty, James Martin, John Hanna, John Ross, Robert
•Carson, Robert Gray. After the organization of the
Pittsburgh congregation in 1865, the Allegheny con-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 303

gregation continued to worship in the old church at
the corner of Lacock and Sandusky streets, and had
about three hundred and fifty members. In December,
1868, they removed to the present large church
building at the corner of Sandusky and Diamond
streets. Dr. Sproull resigned the charge in October,
1868. For two years the congregation was vacant,
and in the meantime a division occurred, resulting in
the organization of the Central Allegheny congregation,
October 24, 1870. The Rev. David B. Willson was
installed pastor of the Allegheny congregation in
November, 1870, and they continued to worship in the
new church. Rev. John W. Sproull was installed
pastor of the Central Allegheny congregation in April,
1 87 1, and they worshipped in the chapel of the United
Presbyterian Seminary until the occupation of the
present church on Sandusky street below Ohio. Among
the elders in this congregation are David Gregg, Robert
Gibson, John and Robert Aikin, William Anderson,
Hugh McKee, Matthew Steele, John Logan, Henry
Stewart, William Haslett and Theophilus Sproull. Rev.
D. B. Willson resigned the Allegheny congregation in
October, 1875. Rev. J. R. W. Sloane was installed
pastor in June, 1877, and continued in this relation, in
addition to his Seminary work, until his health failed,
and he was released in May, 1884. The Rev. J. R.
J. Milligan, the present pastor, was ordained and
installed in October, 1885. Among the elders and
members in this congregation were John and James
l^og^gs, James B. McKee, Daniel Euwer, John T.
Morton, James Best, William Martin, John C. McKee,

304 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Martin Prenter, Robert Morton, Clark Morton, "Isaac
Taylor, David A. Grier, James McFall, Donald M..
Sloane, John Allen, James Patterson, Prof. McAnlis,
James Knox, William Boggs. The Central congrega-
tion is conducting a mission school at Spring Garden,
in the north-eastern part of Allegheny. In November,.
1887, a congregation was organized in the East End,
Pittsburgh, and a flourishing Sabbath School is being
conducted. Among the ofificers in this new congrega-
tion are John C. Calderwood, Alexander M. Denholm,
William Blair, J. Calvin Ewing, Samuel Denholm and
Thomas C. Johnston. In the congregations of Allegheny
and Pittsburgh there are about eight hundred members,
closely attached to the principles of the Church,,
abundant in labors and liberal supporters of the gospel.
There is a strong and healthy element of Covenan-
terism around Pittsburgh, which gives tone to the
cause and influence to the Church in that vicinity..
WiLKINSBURGH. Mainly through the instrumentality
of Hugh Boyd and James Kelly, a house of worship was
erected in this village in 1845, ^'"id a congregation
organized in the summer of 1848. They had formerly
belonged to the Pittsburgh and Allegheny congregation,,
and now included the preaching station of Deer Creek.
The R^v. Thomas Hanna was stated supply for some
time, and they also enjoyed the labors of the young
men of the Church. The Rev. Joseph Hunter was
installed pastor in April, 1852, and continued in this
relation thirty years. The Rev. W. W. Carithers was
installed pastor in June, 1883, and is in charge. The
congregation has erected a neat parsonage and soon

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 305

will build a new church edificq. Among the elders and
prominent members in Wilkinsburgh have been James
Kelly, Hugh and John Boyd, Robert Bovard, Samuel
Henning, Samuel Henry, W. J. Dougherty, Dr. Wads-
worth, David Osborn, Hugh Dean, William Wills,
William Blair, Thomas Newell, Robert Barr, Thomas
Black, A. C. Coulter, William Wylie, W. M. Pierce,
James Barron, J. D. McCune, Isaac Kitchen, and others.

McKeesport. For many years this was a branch of
the Monongahela congregation, and enjoyed the labors
respectively of Revs. John Crozier, J. W. Sproull, T. C.
Sproull and W. J. Coleman. It was organized into a
separate congregation in April, 1882, and for three years
was supplied by Presbytery. Rev. Joseph H. Wylie was
the first pastor, installed in June, 1885, and released in
June, 1887. The congregation for many years worshipped
in a school-house, and a few years ago secured a good
church building in an eligible location. Among the
members are S. O. Lowry, John McConnell, James
Gemmil, Thomas Adams, J. G. McElroy, Knox C. Hill,
Joseph Steele, William McCarthy, Joseph L. Stewart,
David H. Sarver, James Bell, John Jenkins, William
Littlejohn, William McCaw, G. W. Warren.

Monongahela. This congregation occupies a promi-
nent place in the history of the Church, and in early
times was distributed over a large area of country lying
along the Monongahela and Youghiogheny rivers, some
twenty miles south-east of the city of Pittsburgh. The
central point was the "' forks of the Yough," as the space
between these two rivers, and for a considerable distance
.above their confluence, was denominated. Other branches

3o6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

were Jefferson, ten miles north-east; Redstone, thirt)'
miles south-east; and Miller's Run in Washington County.
Under " Monongahela " will be considered the history of
Covenanterism principally in Elizabeth Township, Alle-
gheny County." Perhaps the earliest settlement was in
1769, when James Willson, and his son Zaccheus, left the
Cove Mountain east of the Alleghenies, and settled in
this vicinity. The following year, accompanied by Robert
McConneil, Mr. Willson removed to the "forks of the
Yough." Soon after this they were joined by the
families of Robert and Matthew Jamison, Andrew
McMeans and Matthew Mitchell, and a praying society
was formed. The Rev. John Cuthbertson made his first
and only tour to this region in the autumn of 1779.
On the evening of September 17, 1779, he arrived at
the house of Mr. Simpson, at the "forks of the Yough,"
and on the next day rode to the homes of Colonel Cook
and Zaccheus Willson. On the Sabbath he preached in
a tent on the farm of Zaccheus Willson, and baptized
Mary, daughter of Robert Jamison. On Monday he rode
five miles down the Yough to Joseph Caldwell's and
Joseph Morton's, and on September 21, he preached and
baptized Thomas and Elizabeth, children of Charles
Boal. He also visited James Finney and David Robinson.
On the next Sabbath, September 26, 1779, he preached
at the house of John Drennen, and baptized Susan,
daughter of Josiah Willson; James, son of Aaron Willson;
Hannah, daughter of Joseph Laughead; David and Martha,
children of John Drennen; and Susannah, daughter of
James Patterson. On Monday he visited the homes of
'* Covenanter, Vol. 2, p. 152. Cuthbertson's Diary.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 307

Matthew Mitchell and John Reed, on the Monongahela,
and then passed over into Washington County. He
returned to the house of John Reed on October 3, and
preached near by and baptized John, son of John Reed.
He then went back to Washington County with John
Reed. Mr. Cuthbertson appears to have returned the
second time to the "forks of the Yough," preaching to and
catechizing fifty persons. He also baptized William, son
of Matthew Mitchell; Janet, daughter of Ebenezer
Mitchell; Isabel, daughter of John Mitchell. He then
went again to Miller's Run. On Sabbath, October 17,
he passed this way on his road home and preached, and
baptized Martha, daughter of James Finney; Hannah,
Sarah and William, children of John Robinson. He then
returned to Eastern Pennsylvania and never visited this
region again. It would appear from Mr. Cuthbertson's
diary that the principal Covenanter families in this
vicinity in 1779, were those of James Simpson, Zaccheus,
James, Josiah and Aaron Willson, Joseph Laughead,
Joseph Caldwell, John Drennen, Thomas Morton, James
Patterson, Robert and Matthew Jamison, Andrew Mc-
Means, Matthew, John and Ebenezer Mitchell, James
Finney. John Reed, Charles Boal, David and John
Robinson. At the union of 1782, the whole society,
with the exception of the single family of James Finney,
went • into the Associate Reformed Church. Soon Mr.
Finney was joined by the families of John Laughead
and Mrs. Parkhill from over the mountains. For ten
years they lived without public preaching and maintained
the principles of the Church. In 1792, they were cheered
by a visit from the Rev. William King, who had recently

308 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

emigrated to South Carolina. In 1794, the Rev. James
McKinney vi.sited them, and aroused such an interest by
his eloquence, that as many as three thousand persons
gathered to hear him from all parts of the country. In
the autumn of 1799, the Rev. John Black, then a licen-
tiate, was sent to the region beyond the Alleghenies.
He was ordained in December, 1800, as pastor of all
the societies in the vicinity of Pittsburgh, and gave part
of his time to Monongahela. John Drennen and Zaccheus
Willson returned to the Covenanter Church, and the
society was now joined by Samuel Wylie, Benjamin
Brown, William Madill, and others. The services were
usually held at the house of James Finney, on the bank
of the Monongahela. In 1801, the society was regularly
organized, and James Finney and Zaccheus Willson were
chosen ruling elders. The first communion was held in
1802, and was conducted by John Black and Samuel B.
Wylie. The services were held in a grove near the
"forks of the Yough." and a large number of commu-
nicants from all the western Counties a.ssembled at the
feast. Another communion was held by the same
ministers on the farm of Samuel Scott, about eight miles
south of Pittsburgh, and here the Rev. Samuel B. Wylie
preached his celebrated sermons, "The Two Sons of Oil"
and " Covenanting."* Soon the congregation so rapidly
increased, that, in 1806, Dr. Black divided his extensive
charge and continued to supply the.se people. The
session was then increased by the election of Samuel
Wylie, John Anderson and William Gormley, ruling elders.
In the Redstone settlement were the Parkhills; and at

*Dr. Sproull's Sketches.

. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 309

the " Sanhedrim," or Mifflin society, were the families
of WilHam McElree, James Tennent and David Love.
The first pastor of Monongahela and Canonsburgh was
the Rev. William Gibson, who was installed in the fall
•of 181 7. He remained in this relation for nine years.
In the fall of 1827, the Rev. Gordon T. Ewing was
installed pastor. His health was very poor and he
resigned in May, 1830, and returned to Ireland. During
the controversy and division of the Church in 1833,
they were left without a pastor, but they were so well
grounded in the principles of the Church, that very few,
if any, left the communion. The Rev. John Crozier
was installed pastor in May, 1834, and remained in
this relation for thirty-one years, and until his release
in April, 1865. Rev. John W. Sproull was installed in
April, 1866, and released in April, 1871. Rev. T. C.
Sproull was the pastor from October, 1871, until May,
1876. Rev. W. J. Coleman was installed in June, 1879,
and released in July, 1881. Rev. John M. Wylie was
installed in April, 1883, and released in April, 1884.
Rev. Robert Reed was stated supply for some time.
By emigration and death, the cause which one hundred
years ago was so flourishing, is now languishing at the
" forks of the Yough." Among the old families and
■elders of this historic congregation might be named
Zaccheus and John Z. Willson, Samuel Wylie, James,
William and Robert Finney, Thomas Reynolds, Walter
McCrea, Samuel Rodgers, William, James and David
Parkhill, James Patterson, John Huston, John Elliot, Sr.,
John Elliott, Jr., John and William McConnell, R. C.
McKee and John S. Patterson.

310 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

WASHINGTON COUNTY.
Miller's Run. Previous to the year 1842, this
congregation was a part of Monongahela, and was
settled about the same time. The Rev. John Cuthbert-
son visited "Shirtee" (Chartiers) in September, 1779,
and found the families of Alexander McConnell, James
Scott, George Marcus and Samuel Willson in this
vicinity. He preached at the house of John McGlaughlin
and baptized James, son of James McGlaughlin ; Francis
and John, sons of Matthew McConnell ; Sarah and
Mary, daughters of Robert Walker. On September 4.
1779, accompanied by John Reed, Mr. Cuthbertson
rode to his "Plantation" which he had previously
bought. This farm was situated near West Middleton, and
was occupied by his son John, who was a physician,
and his only daughter lived with him. It was known
as the Cuthbertson farm, and the daughter lived there
until her death in 1835. After a visit again to the
"forks of the Yough," Mr. Cuthbertson preached at
the house of Samuel Willson and baptized Elizabeth,,
daughter of Samuel Willson ; John and Margaret,,
children of Samuel Scott. From this diary it is prob-
able to reckon that the principal families in Washing-
ton County, in 1779, were those of Alexander and
Matthew McConnell, James and Samuel Scott, George
Marcus, Samuel Willson, John and James McGlaughlin,
William Patterson and Robert Walker. In 1782, all
these went into the Associate Reformed Church and
were the nucleus of the present United Presbyterian
congregations in that vicinity. In 1794. the Rev.
James McKinney visited this region and found a few

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 3 II

families of Covenanters who had recently moved in,
and organized them into a society. In 1799, and for
many years thereafter, the Rev. John Black preached
in this settlement. The congregation took the name
of Canonsburgh in 1806, and was a part of Dr. Black's
charge, but he soon confined his labors to Pittsburgh.
In 1808, a log • church was erected in the village of
Canonsburgh, which had now become famous as the
seat of Jefferson College, and a lot for a burial ground
surrounded the old church.* In 1809, the Rev. David
Graham began to supply them. He was a most
eloquent preacher, and, in 18 10, they gave him a
unanimous call to become their pastor, which he
accepted. Before his installation, however, some charges
were brought against him, and, in 181 1, he was deposed.
He joined the Associate Reformed Church for a while,
and many of the Covenanters followed him into that
body, plainly declaring that they were more attached
to the man than they were to their principles. They
mostly returned to the faith of their fathers. Among
the early families were those of John Slater and
Robert George, who have numerous descendants in the
Church of that County. Uniting with Monongahela,
Canonsburgh succeeded in obtaining the Rev. William
Gibson as pastor in October, 18 17, who was released
in May, 1826. In October, 1827, the Rev. Gordon T.
Ewing became the pastor. He was a popular preacher
and had a prosperous following. At his suggestion
the old log church in Canonsburgh was torn down
with the design of building a new church. His health

* History of Washington County, Pennsylvania.

312 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

failing, he resigned the charge in May, 1830, and
upon the foundation laid for the church a dwelling
was afterwards erected. It stood on the west side of
Main street and a few graves may yet be seen at
the west end of the lot.* In May, 1834, the Rev.
John Crozier became the pastor. In 1835, the church
site was changed from Canonsburgh to the present
location five miles north, and a neat brick church was
erected. The congregation now became known as
Miller's Run, because the first preaching in this
locality was conducted at the house of Mr. George near
this stream. In October, 1842, Mr. Crozier was released
from this branch of his extensive charge. In May,
1843, the Rev. William Slater was ordained and
installed the pastor, and continued uninterrupted in
this relation for forty-four years, and until his resigna-
tion in April, 1887. In 1870, the old brick church
was removed, and the present commodious frame
structure was built on the site. Miller's Run is a
strong congregation. They have been thoroughly
indoctrinated in the truths of the Bible and the
principles of the Covenanter Church. Among the old
families, and who have descenda'nts now in connection
with the Church, are those by the names of George,
Slater, Scott, Roney, Orr, Wallace, Hunter, Ramsey,
Maxwell, Toner, Houston, Thompson, Robb, McBurney,
Walker, Conner, Burnside, McFarland, and others.

WEST VIRGINIA.

Middle Wheeling. This small congregation is
located in the "Pan-handle," east of the city of
* History of Washington County, Pennsylvania.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 313

Wheeling, and not far from the Pennsylvania line.
The settlement was made about 1825, and, as a part
of the Canonsburgh and Miller's Run congregation,
this neighborhood was occasionally visited by the Revs.
Gordon T. Ewing from 1827 until 1830; by John
Crozier from 1834 until 1842; and by William Slater
from 1843 until April, i860, when it was organized as
a distinct congregation. The Rev. Armour McFarland
was installed for a part of his time in April, 1866,
and demitted this branch in April, 1873. The Rev.
Samuel R. McClurkin, the present pastor, was installed
in September, 1876. They possess a neat and comfort-
able house of worship recently erected. Among the
eldership and members of this congregation have been
John Roney, Alexander, James,' Creighton C. and T.
J. Orr, Samuel McCoy, John Cochran and James Roney.

OHIO.
YOUNGSTOWN. This congregation has been known
at different times by different names ; first as Austin-
town, then Poland and North Jackson, and finally as
Youngstown. The congregation is situated principally
in Columbiana and Mahoning Counties, Ohio, and along
the Pennsylvania line. Austintown was a branch of
the Little Beaver congregation as early as 18 14,,
and enjoyed the labors of the Rev. Robert Gibsom
from 1 8 19 to 1830, and those of the Rev. George
Scott from 1831 until 1833, when he, and a part of
the congregation, went into the New School body.
In 1834, the congregation was attached to Slippery

314 - HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Rock under the pastoral care of the Rev. James
Blackwood. The elders at this time were William
Guthrie and John Ewing. In 1838, Austintown and
Little Beaver formed a separate congregation, and the
first pastor was the Rev. Joseph W. Morton from
1845 until 1847. In 1848, the Rev. Samuel Sterrett
became the pastor of the united charge. Austintown
became a separate congregation in May, i860, and
Mr. Sterrett continued in charge until his release in
October, 1867. Rev. Robert J. George was the next
pastor installed in May, 1870, and released in April,
1875. Rev. T. C. Sproull was installed in July, 1876,
and released in July, 1879. For six years they enjoyed
occasional supplies in Poland and North Jackson, but
were so reduced in nnmbers by emigration that they
£ould not support a pastor. In October, 1885, they
were re-organized as the Youngstown congregation and
the principal place of preaching is in this city. They
Tiave secured a hall, and Rev. H. W. Reed was
installed pastor in May, 1888. Among the elders
and leading members in this congregation have been
William and John Guthrie, John and Gibson Ewing,
George Hamilton, J. B. Jordan, J. E. Gault, W. S.
Kernohan, W. R. Sterrett, William McConnell, and
others.

Greenfield. This congregation was situated in
Harrison County, and included the adjacent societies of
Londonderry, McMahon's Creek, Salt Fork and Steu-
benville. Covenanters settled in this region as early
as 1806, mostly emigrants from Western Pennsylvania.
The congregation was not regularly organized until

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 315

about 1822. The first pastor was the Rev. William
Sloane, installed in November, 1829, and released in
October, 1838. Rev. James Love was installed in June,
1839, and released in May, 1847. The congregation
soon diminished, and, in 1849, was dropped from the
roll and soon became extinct. Nathan Johnston, James
McKinney, Thomas McFetridge, Joseph Boyd, James
Kirk, William Pollock, James W. Thomson, Matthew
Wilkin, George Orr, James Herron, James Darrah,
John Adams and Thomas Patton were among the
leading members.

Londonderry and North Salem. Early in the
present century a few families of Covenanters settled
in Guernsey County and were occasionally visited by
a passing minister. The congregation was organized
about 1822, and included many branches with those
farther east in Harrison County. Rev. William Sloane
became the first pastor in November, 1829, and remained
in this relation nine years. In June, 1839, the Rev.
James Love succeeded him in the pastorate, and
remained in this branch until October, 1864. Rev,
James A. Thompson was installed in October, 1866,
and released in September, 1875. In April, 1879, the
North Salem branch received a separate organization,
and, in 1880, the Rev. James R. Latimer became the
pastor of the united charges. He resigned in May,
1882, since which time they have not had a settled
pastor. Among the old and prominent families here
are those by the names of Hutcheson, Galbraith,
Kernohan, Walkinshaw, Law, Martin, Cairns, Thompson,

3l6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Forsythe, Glasgow, Love, Reed, McKee, Logan, Walker^
Blackwood, Moffett, and others.

Brownsville, This small congregation was located
in Monroe County, and was supplied many years pre-
vious to its organization in 1854. Previous to that
date, and until his death in October, 1856, the Rev.
Oliver Wylie was stated supply. In August, 1859,.
the Rev, James A. Thompson became the pastor and
was released in June, 1865, For ten years they were
occasionally supplied by Rev, Armour McFarland,.
and others. In September, 1876, the Rev, Samuel
R, McClurkin was installed for part of his time, but
was released in the following year, and occasionally
supplied it. The cause is now about extinct. John
Barber, Henry Boyd, John McKaige, Robert AUen^
John Adams, James Waltenbaugh, Joseph Eakman and
William J. Anderson were among the leading members.

New Concord. This flourishing congregation is
situated in the eastern part of Muskingum County^
and, until 1871, was known as Salt Creek, The first
Covenanter known to settle in this vicinity was
Matthew Mitchell, who came with his family from the
"forks of the Yough," in Pennsylvania, in 1804.* In
1 8 10, John Jamison came from the same region, and
in 18 1 2, William Robinson and Neal McNaughton
emigrated from Conococheague and settled on Salt
Creek, twelve miles south of New Concord. In 18 14,
Samuel McCutcheon emigrated from Ireland and settled
about six miles below New Concord. These families
constituted a praying society and unfurled the banner

*Dr. H. P. McClurkin in Banner, 1876, p. 169.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 317

of the Covenant. They were occasionally visited by
Revs. John Black and Matthew Williams. In the sum-
mer of 1 8 14, Rev. Robert Wallace, who is the father
of Covenanterism in Ohio, began missionary work
principally at Utica and Chillicothe. In 181 5, he
providentially met Neal McNaughton, at a hotel in^
Zanesville, who took him to his home where Mr..
Wallace preached the following Sabbath. The society
continued to grow under his occasional ministrations
until the organization of the congregation in June,.
1 82 1, by the election of John Auld and John Jami-
son ruling elders. The communion was soon after-
wards dispensed and Mr. Wallace was assisted by the
Rev. Charles B. McKee. The services were held in
the woods near the farm of Mr. McCutcheon, and the-
following forty members communed at the first sacra-
ment: John and Mary Auld ; John and Margaret Jamison ;
Mrs. Black ; Robert and Elizabeth Brown ; Matthew,
Mary, Rachel and Rebecca Calhoun; Betsy Cunningham;.
Eleanor Forsythe ; Alexander and Mrs. George ;.
Matthew, Sr., Matthew, Jr., and Mrs. Mitchell; Samuel,.
Isabel, Sr., Isabel, Jr., James and Anna McCutcheon ;
Neal and Mary NcNaughton ; William Robinson ;
Joseph, Ann, James and Jane Sterrett ; Thomas, Mary,
Sr., Mary, Jr., William, James and Archibald Steven-
son ; David and Mary Sim ; Jacob and Anna Wortman.-
All these are now dead. In October, 1823, Mr.
Wallace was installed pastor, and also preached at
Jonathan's Creek, Muskingum, Tomica and Will's Creek.
Mr. Wallace died in July, 1849. In October, 1850, the
Rev. Hugh P. McClurkin was installed, and remained

3l8 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

almost nuinterruptedly for thirty-two years, and until his
release in October, 1882. The Rev. James M. Paris,
the present pastor, was installed in July, 1884. Among
the many officers who have served in this congrega-
tion are John Auld, John Jamison, David and Benja-
min Wallace, David Hawthorne, Richard and Thomas
McGee, Archibald and William Stevenson, Walter
McCrea, David Stormont, William and Thomas Wylie,
John Gibson, William Forsythe, William Speer, William
Elliot, Thomas Stewart. John Taylor, James McCartney,
Samuel Mitchell, James R. Willson, Hugh Patterson and
John C. Robb.

MusKlN(;uM AND ToMlCA. This was long a part of
the Salt Creek congregation and under the pastoral
care of the Rev. Robert Wallace. It received a
separate organization in October, 1831. The first
pastor was the Rev. John Wallace, installed in April,
1833, and continued in this relation for twenty-two
years. On account of some Church troubles he resigned
in 1855. For ten years they were a vacancy, and the
Rev. Armour McFarland frequently supplied them. In
December. 1865, the Rev. J. C. K. Faris was installed
pastor, and was released in April, 1871. For six years
they were again vacant but enjoyed the labors of Rev.
Armour McFarland and others. Rev. William S.
Fulton was installed in December, 1877, aud released
in April, 1883. Rev. John M. Wylie, the present
pastor, was installed in January, 1885. There are two
branches with good houses of worship, and the cause is
in a healthy condition. Among the officers have been
James Sloat, Robert and John Irwin, William Dunlap,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 319

James McQuigg, William and James McGlade, William
and John Robeson, John and William Wylie, James
Beattie, James and John Stitt, and R. H. Kilpatrick.

Jonathan's Creek. This congregation is situated
along the Haysville pike and about eight miles south-
west of the city of Zanesville. The first family settled
in this vicinity in 181 5. A society was formed in
1823, and was attached to the Salt Creek congrega-
tion under the care of the Rev. Robert Wallace. For
thirty years they continued to be visited by the pastors
in the vicinity. The branches of Rocky Fork, West
Bedford and Irville were organized into a congregation
in August, 1853, witlr twenty-three members, and James
Stitt, James Beall and Walter B. Finney were chosen
ruling elders. The name then was the Eden and
Irville congregation, and, in 1855, the name was
changed, by the transfer of preaching, to Jonathan's
Creek. Rev. Armour McFarland became the pastor in
the summer of 1853, and continued in this relation
until his health caused his release in April, 1876. In
1880, the Rev. T. C. SprouU became stated supply
for one year. The Rev. Robert B. Cannon, D. D.,
became the pastor in September, 1886, and is now in
cKarge. They possess a very neat house of worship,
near the town of Newtonville, and the cause has revived
under the present pastorate. Families by the names
of McFarland, George, Thomson, Kirkpatrick, Ardrey,
Wylie, Johnston, Gladstone, Harvey, and others, have
long held up the "Banner of the Covenant" in that
locality.

Utica. This is a pleasantly situated town in the

320 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

northren part of Licking County. As early as 1805,.
the family of James Dunlap settled along the Licking
Creek near this place.* In 1809, Robert Kirkpatrick
settled in the same communit}' ; and in 18 10, the
families of Nathaniel and Peter Kirkpatrick, Joseph
Fulton, John McNaughton, Samuel Kirkland, Joseph and
John Campbell, Samuel Dufifield and Joseph Jameson
settled in the same neighborhood, and a praying
society was formed. ' They were regularly organized
into a congregation in October, 181 3, by the ordina-
tion of James Dunlap and Nathaniel Kirkpatrick ruHng
elders, with thirty-five members. Rev, Robert Wallace
was the first pastor installed in charge in November,.
1 8 14, and preached in many other localities. He demit-
ted the charge in the summer of 1822. William Mitchell
was added to the session in 1822. The congregation,
was vacant for fifteen years, during which time they
were almost constantly supplied, and many were added
to the membership. They had no house of worship,,
and held the services in a tent on the hill east of
town, near the residence of J. M. Kirkpatrick, who-
was long a ruling elder. In 1830, a comfortable house
of worship was erected. During this period, John
McDaniel and Peter Kirkpatrick were added to the
session. The Rev. Armour McFarland was installed
pastor in October, 1837, and released in May, 1853..
During his pastorate one hundred persons were addedi
to the Church, and John Day, Hugh and James Hervey..
and William Adams were chosen ruling elders. In
November, 1856, the Rev. John C. Boyd became pastor
* Extracted from sessional records by Mr. James Watson.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 321

for a part of his time; and, from 1867, until his
release in October, 1882, he devoted all his time to
Utica. In 1857, James M. Kirkpatrick was chosen an
■elder, and William Stevenson, Robert McFarland and
Wait Wright elected deacons. In i860, William
Dunlap, Walter B. Finney and James Beall ; and in
1865, James Watson, were added to the session. In
1864, the congregation erected a new church building.
William Hervey and Robinson Johnston were subse-
quently elected elders. After the resignation of Mr.
Boyd they were vacant nearly four years. The Rev.
W. J. Coleman was installed in charge, April, 1886,
and resigned in November, 1887. Among the prominent
families here have been those of Dunlap, Kirkpatrick,
Kirkland, Campbell, Jameson, Mitchell, McDaniel, Day,
"Wright, Hervey, Adams, Watson, Beall, Stevenson,
McFarland, Finney, Deary, Darrah, Bovard, Reynolds,
McDermott, Boyd, Wallace, Hass, Dillon, Johnston,
and others.

Mansfield. This is a growing city and a railroad
center, situated in the northren and central part of
the State. In the spring of 1877, the Rev. Samuel
A. George, then a licentiate, was appointed by the
■Central Board of Missions to labor in this city, and
began work when there were only three Covenanters
in the city. The congregation was organized, October
II, 1878, with forty members. The elders have been
W. P. Clarke, James Railt, William Gregg, Johnston
McKee, Michael George, S. H. Garrett and J. B.
Jordan. Rev. Samuel A. George was ordained and
installed pastor, November 20, 1878, and has built up

322 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

a good congregation of faithful and energetic people.
In 1884, they erected a handsome brick church edifice
in the heart of the city and upon a public thorough-
fare.

Sandusky. This congregation was situated upon the
Little Sandusky river in Crawford County, and not far
from the present city of Crestline. The first Cove-
nanter who settled here was William Jameson, in 1832,
having emigrated from Western Pennsylvania. The
Rev. J. B. Johnston, and others, occasionally visited
the few families located here before the organization. -
It was organized in October, 1843, and was supplied-
for four years. The Rev. John C. Boyd became the-
pastor in May, 1847, ^^d was released in November,
1867, after twenty years of faithful labor. Not securing
another pastor, the congregation gradually weakened
until its disorganization in April, 1876. Among the
leading families were those of Jameson, IVIarshall,
Robeson, Moore and Reynolds.

Miami. Under this heading will be included all the
Covenanters in Logan County, and around the historic
village of Northwood. In early times Cherokee was the
post town. As early as 1828, a few families of Cove-
nanters settled upon the head waters of the Miami river,
among whom were Robert Scott, Samuel. Matthew, Jr.,
and Matthew Mitchell, Sr., Abram and Isaac Patterson,
John Young, Joseph and Thomas Fulton, Mrs. Hays and
Mrs. Margaret King.* They formed a praying society,
and were occasionally visited by Revs. Hugh and Gavin
McMillan, until the latter minister organized them into

* Items from Mrs. James Wylie, Northwood, Ohio.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 323

a congregation in October, 1831, by the election of
Abram Patterson, John Young and Matthew Mitchell, Jr.,
ruling elders. In June, 1834, the Rev. John B. Johnston
was ordained and installed pastor. The congregation
was rapidly built up, and they erected a log church on
the Creek near the present West Geneva Cemetery. In
time this was replaced by a large brick church in which
they worshipped for many years. The deacon question
caused a division in the once harmonious flock, and the
Second Miami congregation was organized by a Commis-
sion of Synod, in August, 1851, and they erected a frame
church building in the village of Northwood. In July,
1853, the Rev. J. C. K. Milligan was installed co-pastor
with Mr. Johnston over the First congregation, and they
continued to teach in the College. Those members'
residing in the vicinity of Rushsylvania were organized
into a separate congregation in November, 1853, and
soon afterwards erected a frame building for church
purposes. The Rev. William Milroy was installed the
first and only pastor of the Second Miami congregation
in October, 1854. The Rev. J. R. W. Sloane, then
President of Geneva Hall, was installed pastor of the
Rushsylvania congregation, in January, 1855, and thus
the three congregations enjoyed the labors of four
eminent ministers. Dr. Sloane resigned the Rushsylvania
congregation in May, 1856, and removed to New York.
In 1858, the First Miami congregation lost both of its
pastors. Mr. Johnston connected with the United Pres-
byterian body, and Mr. Milligan resigned and removed to-
New York. In November, i860, Rushsylvania succeeded
in getting the Rev. Preston H. Wylie as their pastor,.

324 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and in November, 1861, the Rev. John L. McCartney
was settled over the First Miami congregation. In 1866,
the First Miami congregation removed from the old
brick church on the Creek, and erected the present large
frame church in the village of Northwood. In September,
1875, the Rev. J. L. McCartney was released from this
pastoral charge, and in May, 1876, Rev. P. H. Wylie
was released from Rushsylvania. In October, 1876, those
members residing in and around Bellefontaine received
a separate organization, and were supplied for four years.
The Rev. William Milroy, pastor of the Second Miami
congregation and Professor of Latin in Geneva College,
■died in November, 1876, and thus the four congregations
were left without pastors. In April, 1877, the First and
Second were consolidated, forming the United Miami
■congregation, and have since worshipped in the commo-
dious First Church building, . and those members residing
in Belle Centre were granted a separate organization.
The congregations have since been four in number, with
Northwood (United Miami) as the center; Rushsylvania,
four miles east; Bellefontaine, eight miles south; and
Belle Centre, three miles north. A new brick church
was erected in Belle Centre, and the Bellefontaine people
purchased a church building. In May, 1878, the Rev.
H. H. George became the pastor of the Rushsylvania
vcongregation, and the Rev. George Kennedy that of
United Miami. In January, 1879, the Rev. John Lynd
was installed at Belle Centre, and in May, 1880, Rev.
Finley M. Foster was installed at Bellefontaine. In
May, 1880, Dr. George was released from Rushsylvania,
.and in August, 1880, the Rev. John Lynd was installed

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 325

as his successor, with Belle Centre. In June, 1882, the
Rev. George Kennedy was released from the United
Miami congregation, and for four years the people made
several unsuccessful efforts to obtain a pastor. In April,
1885, the Rev. John Lynd was released from Belle
Centre and Rushsylvania; and in April, 1886, the Rev.
Josiah J. Huston was installed pastor of Belle Centre,
and, in July, 1886, over Rushsylvania, which are his
present charges. In May, 1886, the Rev. Ruther Har-
grave, the present pastor, was installed over the United
Miami congregation at Northwood. In August, 1887,
the Rev. F. M. Foster was released from Bellefontaine.
By emigration and death, Rushsylvania and Bellefontaine
are greatly reduced in numbers, and, alone, are not able
to support pastors. Among the old families and members
at Northwood were Robert and Joseph Scott, Abram
and Isaac Patterson, Samuel Hyndman, Samuel and
Matthew Mitchell, James Gray, James Wright, George
Hartin, John and James Trumbull, Cornelius, Samuel and
Russell Jameson, Moses T. Glasgow, Stephen Bayles,
John Crawford, John Young, Robert Patton, Jonathan
Ritchie, William, Samuel P. and James S. Johnston,
Robert and David Boyd, David Milroy, Robert McClure,
Matthew Wilkin, William Rambo, Thomas Hosack,
William and Matthew Pollock, James Keers, Robert
Wylie, Allan Reid, Hugh Parks, Drs. Carter and Jenkin,
Joseph Murphy, David Clark, George Johnston, James
Steele, Joseph Clyde, Hugh Harvey, Archibald Lamont,
John Day, John and James Reid, William Reed, James
and William Dunlap, T. C. Speer, David Alexander,
William C. Johnston, Thomas Logan, John K. Mitchell,

326 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Joseph Forsythe, Ebenezer Milro}', John Campbell, James
Fulton, John Keys, and others. Rjishsylvania : John and
Matthew Mitchell, James Qua, Thomas M. Hutcheson,
Henry and Michael George, James Wylie, Francis Halli-
day, George and Renwick Day, John McCullough, Martin
Johnston, and others. Bellefontaine : David Boyd, James
Forsythe, James Guthrie, William Funk, Samuel and
Archibald Foster, M. T. Glasgow, David Fulton, John
McClure, W. B. Keys, Renwick Elliot, and others. Belle
Centre: Cornelius Jameson, Dr. M. D. Willson, William
McClure, J. B. Temple, A. G. Patterson, J. B., J. W., and
S. M. Torrence, William Johnston, John and William
Fulton, Joseph and Alexander McConnell, William and
George Crawford, David S. McKinley, Alexander and
Oliver Liggett, Abram P. Wylie, Cornelius J. Ferguson,
and others. Miami congregation is closely connected
with the educational history of the Church, for in her
midst Geneva College was founded and fostered for
thirty-two years; Geneva Female Seminary was in exis-
tence thirty years; and the Theological Seminary remained
here for several years. Many ministers and private
members can look back upon " Miami " as the place
•where they received much of their mental and spiritual
instruction, and the name of " Northwood " will be a
household word for many generations.

Macedon. This small congregation is situated on
the low rich plains at the head waters of the Wabash
river, in Mercer County, in the central western part
of Ohio. It was a preaching station as early as 1846,
when Alexander George settled in this region, and
continued as a preaching station until its organization

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 327

in July, 1852.* The Rev. William F. George was the
first pastor installed in September, 1853. About 1855,
the typhoid fever raged with such fatality that many
fell under its power and others moved away. Mr.
George was released from the charge in April, 1858.
In January, 1861, they secured part of the time of
the Rev. P. H. Wylie, who, in May, 1876, continued
to give them all of his time. Here he labored faith-
fully under many discouragements until his release in
March, 1887. The congregation is much reduced and
has lost its organization. Among the old families were
those of George, McGee, Woodburn, Fishbaugh, Mc-
Donald, Gray, McMillan, Porterfield, and others.

Cedarville. This congregation is situated in the
northren part of Green County, and was formerly
known by the two branches of Xenia and Massie's
Creek. This country was first settled by Covenanters
in i8o4.t That year the family of David Mitchell
from Kentucky, and that of James Miller from Scotland,
settled along Clarke's Run and held society meetings
for some time. In 1808, Mr. James Reid, from Ken-
tucky, and Mr. William Moreland were added to the
society, and the following year they were visited by
Revs. Thomas Donnelly and John Kell. They were
afterwards visited by Rev. John Black, who constituted
the society and dispensed the sacrament to about ten
members. The next few years brought several more
families, and the supplies preached in the barns and
log houses. In 18 12, they erected the first church

* Banner, 1878, p. 60.

f Sketch by Rev. J. F. Morton, D. D., and from other sources.

328 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

building, which was a rude log structure with a clap-
board roof, and stood on the farm of James Miller
some seven miles from Xenia. The Rev. John Kell
preached for them about one-fourth of the time until
1816. In May, 18 16, the Rev. Jonathan Gill became
the pastor, and remained in this relation for seven
years. In 1823, the Rev. Gavin McMillan, of Beech
Woods, gave one-fourth of his time for six years. In
the fall of 1828, the Rev. Hugh McMillan, of South
Carolina, visited them, and, receiving a call, and
bringing a part of his congregation with him from
the South, settled as the pastor in September, 1829.
In 1824, a new house of worship was erected upon
the banks of Massie's Creek, two miles from Cedarville.
At the division of the Church in 1833, there were one
hundred and sixty-four members, one hundred and
twenty-seven of whom went with the pastor into the
New School body. The trouble about the church
property was settled by allowing the faithful remnant
to occupy it every fourth Sabbath and during the
communion seasons. They continued to receive occa-
sional supplies until the disorganization in August,
1 841. They resorted to the prayer meetings and held
fast to their principles. They were re-organized as the
Cedarville congregation in June, 1850, and were supplied
for eight years by the students of the Northwood
Seminary, and others. Uniting with Cincinnati, the
Rev. Henry George was ordained and installed pastor
in June, 1858, and was released from this charge in
August, 1866. Rev. Samuel Sterrett became the pastor
in May, 1868, and was removed by death in October,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 329

1 87 1. The Rev. Patterson P. Boyd was installed in
charge in May, 1872, and released in July, 1874. For
seven years they were a vacancy almost constantly
supplied. The Rev. Thomas C. Sproull, the present
pastor, was installed in June, 1881. Among the old
families have been those of Reid, Miller, Mitchell,
Moreland, McMillan, Hemphill, Willson, Grier, George,
McConnell, Reynolds, Watt, Mclntire, Williamson,
Foster, Erwin, Sterrett, and others.

Brush Creek. This small congregation is situated
in Adams County and in the southern part of Ohio.
The society was first called Chillicothe, and was first
visited by Rev. John Kell. In 18 14, the Rev. Robert
Wallace began to give it a part of his time which
he continued to do for six years. The Rev. Charles
B. McKee was the first pastor, installed in August,
1 82 1, and released in the fall of 1822. For five years
they struggled for an existence. In April, 1827, the
Rev. James Blackwood became the pastor and remained
but two years. In June, 1831, the Rev. David Steele
was installed the pastor. He had two principal places
of preaching ; one being at Mill Creek, in Kentucky,
and often in other localities on both sides of the
Ohio. In September, 1840, Mr. Steele and some
followers went into the " Reformed Presbytery," and
Francis Gailey, who also claimed to be the only true
Covenanter, made some disciples, and thus the con-
gregation was weakened. The Rev. Robert Hutchesoni
was installed pastor in September, 1842, but by
defection, emigration and death the congregation was
so reduced that he demitted the charge in May,

330 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

1856. The congregation now became disorganized, and,
for twenty-five years, continued in this condition,
although a few Covenanters resided there. It was re-
organized in November, 1881, with thirty-three members,
and enjoyed the stated labors of Revs. R. J. Sharpe,
William McKinney, R. C. Allen, T. C. Sproull, and
others.. Among the old families here were those by
the names of George, Mclntire, Glasgow, Wright,
Stevenson, Bayles, Milligan, Burns, Copeland, Hemp-
hill, McKinley, Torrence, Foster, Ralston, Montgomery,
and others.

Beech Woods. The original of this congregation was
situated in the western part of Preble County and along
the Indiana line, and was a part of the Garrison charge.
It was settled early in the present century by emigrants
from South Carolina. It was supplied by ministers
;passing to and from the South and increased rapidly in
numbers. The Rev. John Kell took charge of the con-
gregation in April, 18 16, and remained among them for
three years. Samuel Robinson, whose relatives lived
here, supplied them, with others. In May, 1823, the
Rev. Gavin McMillan became the pastor, and the congre-
gation grew rapidly under his faithful ministrations.
During the division of August, 1833, he hesitated, but
finally cast in his lot with the New School brethren and
remained pastor of a portion of his former flock. The
remnant were then attached to the Garrison congregation
in Indiana and enjoyed the labors of its pastor. The
Robinson and Ramsey families, with their connections,
were among the leading members at Beech Woods.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 33 1

Cincinnati. The commercial importance of this
rapidly growing city attracted Covenanters from the
mother country and from the South, very early in the
present century. The congregation was organized in
October, 18 16, by the ordination of elders John McCor-
mick and James McLean, father of Hon. Washington
and John R. McLean, of the Cincinnati E7tguirej\* In
March, 181 8, Archibald Johnston became stated supply,
and by his rare powers as a preacher gathered quite
a congregation. He died the same fall. Rev. Samuel
Robinson then took -charge of the congregation, and
was deposed for intemperance in the summer of 1821.
The Rev. Charles B. McKee was installed pastor in
November, 1822. He was an acceptable preacher and
taught the classics in Cincinnati College. The young
congregation, which had worshipped in private houses
and public halls for many years, now erected a brick
church on George street, near Race, in 1827, on a
plat of ground donated by James McLean. In 1831,
Mr. McKee was released from the - charge and they
were supplied. At the division of the Church in 1833,
while the Rev. James W. Stewart was preaching for
them, the whole congregation, with a few exceptions,
went into the New School body and retained the
church property. Among the most influential members
who went into the new body at that time were :
John McCormick, James McLean, John Hunt, John
FuUerton, Joseph Beggs, William Monford, John Hazlett,
James Sample, James Morton, John Edsworth, John

* Reminiscences by Hon. Washington McLean, Moses T. Glasgow, and
others. Also Banner, 1878, p. 59.

332 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Walker, James Gray, James Mann and Dr. Killough.
Those who held the testimony intact were : Hugh Glas-
gow, John and Mrs. Gray, William Carson and Mrs.
Mary A. Murphy. 'They continued to hold society
meetings, and occasionally enjoyed a day's preaching, for
ten years. The congregation was re-organized with
thirteen members, August 22, 1844, by the election of
Moses T. Glasgow and John Gray, ruling elders. In
1845, the Theological Seminary was removed to this
city from Allegheny, and for four years they enjoyed
the stated labors of Dr. James R. Willson and the
students. The first year the Seminary was conducted in
a frame church on Elm street belonging to the Metho-
dists, and the following winter, in a hall at the corner
of Vine and Eleventh streets, where the congregation
worshipped. In 1847, the spirited congregation leased
a lot on Vine street above Twelfth, and erected a frame
church upon it, with stores below. Here the Seminary
also remained until 1849. They made out many calls,^
but they did not succeed in getting a pastor for several
years. In 1853, James Brown and Alexander Bovard
were added to the session. Uniting with Cedarville
they succeeded in getting the Rev. H. H. George as the
pastor in June, 1858. In i860, the congregation bought
a church on Clinton street, near Central Avenue, and,
after remodeling it, they continued to worship in this
place. In August, 1866, Mr. George began to give all
his time to Cincinnati. Being called to the Presidency
of Geneva College, Mr. George demitted the charge in
August, 1872. The Rev. R. M. Sommerville was the
stated supply for a year. In December, 1877, the Rev.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 333

James M. Foster was ordained and installed pastor, and
continued in this relation until April, 1886. The elders
are Andrew Mclntire, R. F. Glasgow and William Dear-
ness. Among the names of old families may be
mentioned those of Murphy, Gray, Glasgow, Finley,
Brown, Bovard, Lusk, Mclntire, Johnston, Thompson,
Martin, Mitchell, McCullough, Crawford, Dearness, Adams,
Edgar, and others.

MICHIGAN.

Cedar Lake. This congregation is located princi-
pally in Branch County, Michigan, and partly in Steuben
country, Indiana. A few Covenanters emigrated to this
country from Ohio, and succeeded in getting the organi-
zation of a congregation in April, 1841. For nine years
they were supplied by Presbytery and students of
Theology. The Rev. John French was installed the
pastor in September, 1850, and continued in this relatior*
for thirty years, and until his very sudden death in
October, 1880. For four years they were vacant, and,,
after some troubles were settled, by which the California
Mission Station was again joined to the congregation.
The Rev. R. C. Wylie, the present pastor, was installed
in charge in October, 1884. The Covenanters of Cedar
Lake are intelligent and strongly attached to the old
customs of the Church. Among the families long^
connected with the Church are those by the names of
Jameson, Chestnut, Speer, French, Duguid, Mitchell,.
McNaughton, Morrow, Judson, Stewart, Logan, Elsey.

Detroit and Novi. The city of Detroit contained
a few Covenanters, who, in connection with the society

334 HISTORY OF the reformed

of Novi, in Oakland County, were organized into a
congregation in April, 1854. The Rev. Boyd Mc-
Cullough was installed pastor in September, 1855, and
remained in this relation for sixteen years, and until
his release in May, 1871. At this time the congrega-
tion had become so reduced by emigration that it
was disorganized, but continued as a mission station
under the care of Presbytery. In 1876, and for several
years, W. M. Shanks was stated supply. The field is
now practically abandoned. Hugh Woodburn, Walter
Calhoun, Andrew L. McCurdy, Robert Torrens, William
Wray, Robert Laird and George McCarroll were
among the chief supporters and elders.

SOUTHFIELD. This is the oldest and strongest con-
gregation in Michigan. It is situated near the town
of Birmingham, in Oakland County, and some seventeen
miles north-west of the city of Detroit. David Stewart
was the first Covenanter settling here in 1832, who
was honored of God as the chief instrument in the
organization of the congregation in May, 1834, and
was a liberal supporter and efficient elder until his
death.* For nine years the congregation was supplied
and gradually increased in members. The Rev. James
Neill was the first pastor, installed in May, 1843, and
released in October, 1851. The Rev. James S. T.
Milligan was installed pastor in November, 1853, and
remained among these worthy people for eighteen
years. The Rev. James R. Hill was installed in May,
1872, and released in May, 1876. In June, 1878, the
Rev. Joseph McCracken, the present pastor, was

* Reformed Presbyterian, Vol. i6, p. 6i.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 335

installed in charge, and he has built up a large and
flourishing congregation of intelligent and well-to-do
Covenanters. Among the families long connected with
:the Southfield congregation are those of Stewart, Black-
wood, McClung, Sloat, Parks, Bell, Cannon, Grier,
Hemphill, Woodburn, McMullen, Marshall, McKinney,
McLaughlin, McCarroll, Kirkpatrick, McCurdy, McDonald,
Morrill, and others.

Fairgrove. This is a comparatively new field and
was cultivated by the Central Board of Missions for
several years. It is situated in Tuscola County, nearly
.one hundred miles north of Detroit and about twenty
miles from Saginaw Bay. It was organized in Decem-
ber, 1878, with twenty-six members. The Rev. J,
Ralston Wylie was installed pastor in November, 1879.
The congregation rapidly increased and a substantial
.church building was erected in the village of Fairgrove.
Mr. Wylie was released from the charge in October,
1887. Among the elders are Thomas Wylie, John
Kirk, W. L. Robey and John Morrow.

INDIANA.

Garrison, This small congregation of people was
situated in Fayette County, and was a part of the
Beech Woods congregation in Ohio. Emigrants from
the South settled here as early as 1805, and occa-
sionally enjoyed the services of a passing minister.
It was organized in 1812, and the Rev. John Kell
became the pastor in April, 18 16, and remained in
.charge over three years. , Samuel Robinson, and others,

336 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

were supplies. In May, 1823, the Rev. Gavin Mc-
Millan became the pastor, and, during the division of
1833, he and many of the people became identified
with the New School body. The largest part of the
congregation was now in Indiana, and the remnant
at Beech Woods was added to Garrison. For many
years they were supplied by John Holmes, Nathaniel
Allen, and others. The Rev. Josiah Dodds was.
installed the pastor in October, 1847, and continued
in charge for eighteen years. The congregation was
greatly reduced by emigration, and the Beech Woods
branch was given up. In May, 1871, the Rev. Thomas
P. Robb was ordained and installed pastor, and remained
in charge three years. Six years again they struggled
for an existence, and in August, 1880, the Rev. John
J. McClurkin was installed in charge. He remained
four years, and the congregation lost its organization
in September, 1884, by the death of elders and the
removal of members. Among the old Covenanter families
at Garrison were those of Milligan, Stevenson, Gamble,
Dill, Huston, Russell, McMillan, Culbertson, Alexander,
Craig, Cook.

Indianapolis. Immediately after the war of the
rebellion a few Covenanters gathered " into this city,
and the Central Board of Missions began to cultivate
it as a mission field. In the spring of 1866, the Rev.
John Crozier took charge of the mission, built a com-
fortable house of worship in a desirable part of the
city, and preached to appreciative audiences, among
which were members of the Legislature. The con-
gregation was organized May 10, 1867, with twenty-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 337

four members, and Mr, Crozier continued in charge.
The good cause so auspiciously begun gradually-
declined, the congregation was disorganized in May,
1870, and the church property was sold by the Illinois
Presbytery at a small sacrifice.* Dr. J. T. Boyd,
B. F. Breedon and David Fulton were among the
leading members.

Walnut Ridge. This small congregation was
situated seven miles from Salem, the capital of
Washington County, and in the southern part of the
State. It was settled by emigrants from Tennessee
and South Carolina about 1820. It was organized in
May, 1822, and was supplied occasionally by Revs.
John Kell, Samuel Wylie, and others. The Rev. Robert
Lusk became the pastor in October, 1824, and ^the
following year he was suspended on charges regarding
monetary matters with his neighbors. Here he lived
in comparative obscurity for ten years, when he
desired to have his case investigated, and the local
fama clamosa against his character averted. t This
was done by a Commission of Synod, and he acknowl-
edged he was sorry for being the occasion of so much
trouble in the Church, and, after receiving an admoni-
tion, was restored by Synod in May, 1835, and con-
tinued to preach in his old charge for five years.
In September, 1840, Mr. Lusk went with David Steele,
and formed the "Reformed Presbytery," taking some
members with him. In June, 1843, the Rev. John
J. McClurkin was installed for part of his time, and

*A'. P. 6^ C, 1872, p. 82. f Reminiscences by Dr. David Steele, Sr.,
and Minutes of Synod, 1834, 1836.

338 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

remained in this relation until April, 185 1. For ten
years it was occasionally supplied and lost its organiza-
tion in May, 1862, and was regarded as a mission
station for several years. The cause was soon extinct,
as the members had either emigrated or died. Among
the old families here were those of Carithers, Reid,
Marks and McElravey.

Princeton. This is the county seat of Gibson
County and situated in the south-western corner of
Indiana, not far from the confluence of the White-
and Wabash rivers. The first Covenanters settling
here were Samuel Hogue from Blount County, Tenn-
essee, and Robert Archer, from Chester District, South
Carolina, in 1805.-^ In 1809, Mr. Hogue, having
returned to Tennessee on business, met the Rev. John
Kell, who, according to promise, visited the families
of Princeton in 18 10, and constituted a praying society.
He continued to visit the scattered families from house
to house in the then wilderness, and held the first
communion at the house of Robert Archer, in October,.
18 1 3, at which time the congregation was organized
by the ordination of Samuel Hogue . and Thomas
Archer, ruling elders. There were about twenty-five
communicants. The congregation continued to grow
by local accessions and emigration, and, in 18 14,,
Robert Stormont and James W. Hogue were added
to the session. The services were usually held in a
log church owned by the Baptists and situated about
one mile north-west of the town of Princeton. In
18 17, James Lessly and Robert Milburn were added

* Presbyterian Historical Almanac, Vol. 5, p. 382.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 339"

to the eldership. The Rev. John Kell was installed
the first pastor in June, 1820. William Crowe, having
removed from Kentucky, was now recognized as a
member of session. They erected the first church
building in Princeton in the fall of 1820. It was a
small frame structure and was occupied for sixteen
years. At the division of the Church in 1833, Mr.
Kell and the great majority of the congregation went
into the New School body, and they retained the
church property. Robert Stormont was the only elder
that stood fast to the principles of the Church,
The small but faithful remnant clung together, re-
organized in July, 1836, and received supplies. In
1840, they called the Rev. Samuel McKinney to
become the pastor ; he accepted the call, but, before
'his installation, he removed to the South. Uniting with
Walnut Ridge they received a part of the time of Rev.
John J. McClurkin in June, 1843, who continued in
this relation for seven years. The Rev. John Stott
was installed pastor of Princeton in October, 1851,.
and was suspended from the ministry in June, 1868,
when some of the members left, and the congregatioa
became disorganized. It was re-organized in April,
1869, with twenty members, and James Little was
ordained a ruling elder. The members adhering to
Mr, Stott were suspended from the privileges of the
Church.* The Rev. Daniel C. Martin was installed in
November, 1872, and released in April, 1888. Among
the old families here are those by the names of
Stormont, Little, Lockhart, Archer, Watt, Hogue,
*F. P. d- C, 1869, p. 186.

340 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Peoples, Crowe, Davis, Orr, Foster, Dickson, Faris,
Mooney, Carithers, and others.

Bloomington. This city is the capital of Monroe
County and the seat of the University of Indiana.
The Covenanters left the sunny South in the early
part of the present century on account of the prevalence
of slavery, and found abode principally in Indiana and
Illinois. This settlement was made in March, 1820, by
John and Thomas Moore, from South Carolina. The
society increased by emigration from the South, and
was organized in October, 1821. At this time there
were only eight members, and John Moore and Isaac
Faris were chosen elders.* In 1823, they lost the
organization by the death of John Moore and the removal
of Isaac Faris. They were re-organized in 1825, by the
ordination of Thomas Moore and James Blair, ruling
elders. The Rev. James Faris became the first pastor
in November, 1827. At this time there were twenty
members.. In 1830, David Smith and D. B. Woodburn,
of South Carolina, were added to the session. The
congregation now grew rapidly by accessions from the
South, and others who were attracted to Bloomington
by her educational advantages. At the division of the
Church in 1833, there were about one hundred and
twenty members, and they were divided into two nearly
equal parts, the one becoming identified with the New
School body, and the other standing fast to Covenanter
principles. The pastor, and elders David Smith and
Thomas Moore, remained true to the old flag. The
congregation continued its work with about sixty

*Rev. D. J. Shaw in Banner, 1879, p. 238.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 34 1

members, and, in 1835, Thomas Smith, Robert Ewing and
John Gamble were added to the session. The congre-
gation had never possessed a house of worship, and,
in 1836, erected a brick building two miles east of
Bloomington. In 1838, James Paris was added to the
session. In 1847, they suffered the loss of their church
building by fire, and a better structure was speedily
erected. The pastor, the Rev. James Paris, departed
this life in May, 1855. The Rev. David J. Sha\v, the
present pastor, was installed in May, 1856, and has
labored faithfully and successfully in this field for thirty-
two years. The elders added to the session have been
Charles McCaughan, John Smith and David Paris in
1862; John R. Hemphill in 1867; James B. Paris, David
M. Smith and Robert Ervin in 1873; James S. and
John M. Paris in 1879. In 1877, they removed from
the country and built a handsome brick church in the
city. The different families by the names of Paris and
Smith, with their connections, have formed a large part
of the membership.

Lake Eliza. This was a small congregation situated
in Lake County, and not far from the city of Chicago.
It was settled by Covenanter emigrants from the
Eastern States in 1850. The society was organized
into a congregation in September, 1852. The Rev.
Preston H. Wylie became the pastor in May, 1855,
and remained in this relation nearly six years. In
September, 1865, the Rev. R, M. C. Thompson became
the pastor, and labored under mkny difficulties and
discouragements for sixteen years. They enjoyed the
visits of itinerants for several years, and the stated
21

342 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

labors of Robert Clyde in 1884. Gradually diminishing
by emigration, the congregation was disorganized in
1886. Here lived the families of Young,- McKnight,
Kirkpatrick, Bovard, Russell, McFarland, Davidson,
McLaren, and others.

ILLINOIS.

Early in the present century, Southren Illinois became
a popular settlement for Covenanters who left the
South on account of the prevalence of human slavery.
They settled principally in Randolph and Washington
Counties, and became the nucleii of the present con-
gregations of Old Bethel, Bethel, Church Hill and
Elkhorn.*

Old Bethel. The first Covenanter minister to visit
this region was the Rev. Samuel Wylie in the summer
of 1 8 16. In the summer of 181 8, he was ordained
by Synod as a missionary and sent to this locality.
He made his principal preaching station at the " Irish
Settlement " a few miles south-west of the present
town of Sparta, and among a few members of the
Associate Reformed Church. The first Covenanter con-
gregation organized was in June, 1 821, with thirty-
five members and the promise of a salary of about
two hundred dollars per year. The elders were Samuel
Little and William Edgar, who had the year previously
emigrated from Tennessee. The Rev. Samuel Wylie
was at that time installed in charge and the congre-
gation was called "Eden," sometimes "Bethel," and

"^ Presbyter ian Historical Almanac, Vol. i, p. 197. Bamrer, 1875, p. 156.
R. P. &- C, 1884, p. 379.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 343

the post town was Kaskaskia on the Mississippi river.
Soon afterwards, James McClurkin, from the Associate
Reformed Church, and James Monford, recently from
South CaroHna, were added to the session. Emigration
soon augmented their numbers and Covenanters flocked
from the South and settled around the orginal society.
In 1823, a comfortable frame church building was
erected, surrounded by a spacious graveyard. Soon the
house of worship became too small, for there were
nearly three hundred and fifty communicants, and
arrangements were made for a new church. Strife
arose in settling the location, and during the erection
of the building, in 1832, the original congregation
was divided, and those at Hill Prairie received a
separate organization. At the division of the whole
Church in 1833, these congregations were again divided,
and Mr. Wylie took many with him into the New
School body. The remnant of the old Bethel con-
gregation continued to hold their organization. The
Rev. James Wallace became the pastor in August,
1840, and continued steadfast to his post for twenty-
seven years, when he was released in May, 1867, to
labor in the interests of the National Reform Associa-
tion. In October, 1869, the Rev. William J. Gillespie
was ordained and installed pastor, and the following-
year left the communion of the Church. For four
years they were vacant and made efforts to obtain a
pastor. In July, 1874, the Rev. Patterson P. Boyd
was installed in charge, and was released in December,
1887.

Bethel. In 1832, the Hill Prairie branch of the

344 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

old and original charge assumed this name, and lost
members at the division in 1833. For many years
they received supplies, and, in August, 1840, the Rev.
Hugh Stevenson was installed pastor. He was a faithful
minister, and, after six years of labor, departed this
life in May, 1846. In October, 1848, Rev. James
Milligan was installed in charge and remained seven
years. In October, 1857, the Rev. David S. Faris, the
present pastor, was ordained and installed in charge.
In the .spring of 1875, the congregation left the old
church at Eden where their fathers worshipped for
over a half a century, and occupied the new and
present church building in the town of Sparta.

Church Hill. This congregation surrounds the
village of Coultersville, and was organized from the
Bethel congregations in October, 1854. The first pastor
was the Rev, William F. George installed in March,
i860, and released in May, 1871. In 1873, they erected
a new house of worship, which is a comfortable one
and well adapted for the purpose. The Rev. James
M. Faris was installed pastor in June, 1873, and
remained in charge eleven^ years. The Rev. John Teaz,
the present pastor, was ordained and installed in charge
in July, 1885. The congregation has done good work
among the colored people of the neighborhood.

Elkhorn. This congregation is situated a little
north-east of the others, near Oakdale, in Washington
County. It was first settled in 1831, by the families
of John and Archibald Hood and James McClurkin from
South Carolina. They located near the present site of
the church, and the Rev. Samuel Wylie supplied them

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 345

for a short time. Soon they were joined by others,
and the congregation was organized in July, 1834, at
the house of Archibald Hood, with nineteen members.
John and Thomas McClurkin and John Donnelly were
chosen ruling elders. The Rev. Samuel McKinney was
installed pastor in April, 1835, and released in May,
1840. The Rev. William Sloane was installed his
successor in September, 1840, and remained in charge
nearly eighteen years. In July, 1859, the Rev. Andrew
C. Todd was installed and he remained twelve years,
when he, and a colony of his people, emigrated to
Colorado. The Rev. David G. Thompson, the present
pastor, was installed in charge in October, 1872. The
congregation is large and has been active in all Church
work. All the congregations enjoy tokens of the Divine
blessing, because of their faithfulness to Covenant
obligations and Reformation principles. The Old Bethel,
Bethel, Church Hill and Elkhorn congregations are so
closely related in their history and members, that the
names are grouped together as representative families
of the Covenanter Church in Southern Illinois. Among
these are Samuel Little, William Edgar, John, Thomas
and James McClurkin, James Monford, Archibald Hood,
John and Thomas Donnelly, Thomas G. Armour, John
Hunter, William Kennedy, Alexander Moore, John G.
and Charles R. Miller, William and John Weir, John
M. Sloane, James Coulter, Joseph Patton, James and'
Hugh Matthews, Andrew Todd, John Robinson, A. J.
and R. S. Edgar, John Steele, W. A. Stevenson, M. K.
Mawhinney, David H. Coulter, James Beall, James and
Thomas Finley, W. B. Whittaker, John Houston, John

346 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and J. M. Wylie, W. J. S. Cathcart, Robert H. Sinclair,
Daniel Dickey, Samuel McCloy, William and Samuel
Woodside, Robert McAfee, Robert Ramsey, Francis
Torrens, D. F. McClurkin, A. W. Hunter, J. D. Elder,
John E. Willson, L. M. Patterson, R. G. McLean, R. K.
Wisely, J. R. Keady, and others.

Staunton. This congregation is situated around the
thriving mining town of Staunton, in the south-eastern
corner of Macoupin County, and some forty miles north-
east of the city of St. Louis. A few Covenanters
settled here a few years previous to the organization
of the congregation in July, 1863. The Rev. John
Middleton was installed the* pastor in May, 1865, and
was released in August, 1870. The Rev. William F.
George was installed in charge in May, 1872, and after
many trials, died in April, 1880. For seven years they
were without a pastor, although they ^made efforts to
-obtain one, and received almost constant supplies.
Uniting with St. Louis they secured a part of the time
-of the Rev. Ellsworth M. Smith, in May, 1887, who is
now in charge. The congregation is small, but they
possess a comfortable house of worship, and are earnest
in their, endeavors to maintain the Reformation cause.
Among the principal elders have been Daniel and W.
H. Williamson, Silas Smith, W. J. Dripps, William and
Hugh Patterson. A few members have lived in the
city of Chicago, and other localities, but no societies
were ever organized.

WISCONSIN.

Vernon. The first Covenanters settling in this region,
some twenty-five miles south-west of the city of

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 347

Milwaukee, were William and Mrs. Ann McLcod, from
Rochester, New York, in the spring of 1844.* About
the same time John McNeil emigrated from York, and
they enjoyed the preaching of Mr. Nathaniel Allen,
licentiate, who conducted services in a log school-house.
In the spring of 1845, the family of James Wright,
from York, and, in the summer of 1846, that of James
S. Gumming, from Toronto, Canada, arrived. In June,
1847, a society was constituted by elder Daniel Mc-
Millan of York, which met regularly at the house of
Mr. Wright. In the early part of 1848, William
Turner arrived with his family from Coldenham, New
York. They now received a few days preaching from
Revs. James Love, James Wallace and W. A. Acheson,
and the services were usually conducted in " Weir's
barn." The congregation was organized as "Waukesha,"
October 18, 1848, with fourteen members, among whom
were the families of Wright, Turner, McNeil, McLeod,
McConncll, McKinney and Gumming. James Wright,
James McGonnell and William Turner were chosen
elders. In 1849, the congregation was taken under the
care of the Rochester Presbytery, for in those days
there were no railroads, and New York was nearest by
way of the lakes. In June, 1850, the Rev. Samuel
Bowden preached and dispensed the communion, at
which time fourteen members were added to the Church,
and the Rev. Robert Johnson preached two or three
months. By the death of elder James Wright, and the
removal of elder James McConnell, the congregation was
disorganized November 18, 18 50. The present church
♦Sketch by Rev. Isaiah Paris, in H. P. d- C, 1883, p. 332.

348 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

building was erected in the town of Vernon in 1853,
and the congregation was re-organized by a Commission
of the Illinois Presbytery as "Vernon," September 16^
1856. William L. Wright with William Turner were
the elders. The Rev, John Middleton was called ta
the pastorate, but declined. The Rev. Robert Johnson
was installed the first pastor in November, 1859, and
remained in charge until December, 1867. In October,,
1 87 1, Ebenezer Milroy and John Gault were added ta
the session. After several unsuccessful attempts to obtain
a pastor, the Rev. Robert B. Cannon, who was called
the second time, was installed September 13, 1872, and
remained nearly six years. In September, 1873, James
Mann was added to the session. The Rev. Isaiah Faris^
the present pastor, was installed in November, 1878.
The principal families have already been mentioned.
Waupaca. This city and vicinity were cultivated as a
mission station by the Rev. James L. Pinkerton, in
1876, but no congregation was organized, as there were
but a few families of Covenanters in that locality.

MINNESOTA.
Elliota. This congregation is situated in Fillmore
County, on the Iowa state line, and about forty miles
west of the Mississippi river. It was settled by a few
Covenanters as early as 1865, and was under the North
West Mission. In May, 1867, the Rev. James S. Buck
was sent as a missionary to this place, and labored
amid much physical weakness for several years. The
congregation was organized in November, 1868, with

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 349'

sixteen members, and they erected a comfortable house
of worship. Mr. Buck continued in charge until shortly
before his death in October, 1870. For eight years-
they were supplied by the Central Board of Missions,
and Revs. N. R. Johnston, Robert Hutcheson, and others,
were stated supplies. The Rev. John W. Dill was
installed pastor in April, 1878, and remained among
them three years. In February, 1886, the Rev. Robert
Clyde, the present pastor, was ordained and installed in
charge. The families of Rice, McKinney, Lemmon, and
others, have long resided there.

Saint Paul. In 1855, Mr. James Aiton, of Rochester,.
New York, removed to this city, and for six years
endeavored to establish a congregation, but in this he
was not successful. At different times it was visited
by a Covenanter minister, and some families resided
there. At the present time efforts are being made ta
organize a society.

Lake Reno. Along the shores of this beautiful lake,,
five miles from Glenwood, Pope County, and about one
hundred and fifty miles north-west of Saint Paul, is
located the growing congregation of Lake Reno.
Several years previous to its organization. Covenanters
from Illinois and Indiana had settled here, and were
organized into a congregation in October, 1869, with
thirty-three members. Revs. Daniel C. Faris and
Robert Hutcheson were stated supplies for some time,,
and the field continued under the care of the Central
Board of Missions for many years. The Rev. Edward
G. Elsey was installed pastor in July, 1882, and is
now in charge. Among the families here are those of

350 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

William Hogan, William Matthews, David Campbell,
J. L. Evving, James and Thomas Semple, Joseph M.
Wylie, Dr. W. C. Allen, Prof. Z. G. Willson, and
■others.

Alexandria. This is a thriving town some ten
miles north of Lake Reno, where some families reside
belonging to the Lake Reno congregation, and is now
regarded as a mission station.

Round Prairie. This society settled upon this
prairie, in Todd County, about thirty miles north-east
of Lake Reno, in 1865. It was settled by emigrants
from Indiana and Illinois, and was organized into a
congregation in May, 1873, with eighteen members.
They have since been under the care of the Central
Board of Missions and never enjoyed the labors of a
settled pastor. The families of Russell and Ewing
have long been connected with the cause in that place.

IOWA.
Sharon. The first Covenanters settling within the
limits of Iowa were the family of Robert McP^lhinney
and his son-in-law, John Baird, from Philadelphia, in
May, 1840.* They journeyed the whole distance in
wagons, crossed the Mississippi at the village of Bur-
lington, and pitched their tents on the banks of Honey
Creek in the northren part of Des Moines County.
In November, 1840, they were re-inforced by the arrival
of the families of Samuel McP^lhinney and Thomas
Cummings, and soon afterwards the Rev. Samuel Mc-

* Sketch by Rev. T. P. Robb, in 7?. P. &= C, 1884, p. iii.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 35 1

Kinney, of Illinois, preached to them at the house of
John Hamilton. In 1844, Robert Brown, Robert and
Aaron Willson joined the society, which was then
constituted. They were now supplied with preaching
by the Revs. William Sloane, James Milligan, James
Wallace, John Holmes and Nathaniel Allen, from time
to time. The society soon became so large that it
was divided, and the first Covenanter congregation in
Iowa was organized by Revs. William Sloane and James
Wallace, at the house of Samuel McElhinney, September
26, 1846, with seventeen members, and it was then
called Linn Grove and Cedar. The elders chosen were
Thomas Cox and Samuel McElhinney. The first pastor
was the Rev. James M. McDonald, ordained and
installed in charge. May 17, 1851. In 1852, a church
building was erected on the present site, not far from
the village of Linton, and the name of the congrega-
tion was changed to Sharon. The increase was large,
but from time to time members were certified to
.constitute other congregations or removed farther West.
By declining health. Dr. McDonald was compelled to
resign the pastorate in June, 1872, and died a few
months thereafter. The Rev. Thomas P. Robb, the
present pastor, was installed in July, 1874. They
occupy a commodious church building, and, in many
ways, Sharon is one of the best country congregations
in the body. Among the eldership and principal
families here have been those of McElhinney, Baird,
Willson, Glasgow, Paris, Sloss, Reid, Montgomery, Hays,
McConaghy, Mclntire, Huston, Henderson, Walkinshaw,

352 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Elliott, Hensleigh, Robb, Carithers, Cubit, Cunningham,.
Stevenson, Marshall and Robinson.

Kossuth. This congregation was also situated in
Des Moines County, and was formed by members
from Sharon, September, 1865. Rev. Robert Johnson
was installed pastor in January, 1868, and was released
in July, 1875. By the death of elder William O.
Lindsay, the congregation was disorganized in the
winter of 1876. It was re-organized in October, 1877,.
and they sold their ' church, and erected another in
the village of Mediapolis, two miles distant. Not
receiving another pastor, and being greatly reduced by
emigration, the congregation was disorganized in April,
1879, and the remaining members were certified to-
Linn Grove.

Linn Grove. This was formed from the original
Cedar society of the Sharon congregation, and organized
in September, 1846, and now situated around the village
of Mediapolis in Des Moines County.* Those opposed
to the ofifice of deacon petitioned and were granted
the organization of a separate congregation, but the
Commission of Presbytery appointed for this work
refused to do so because a deacon could not be
obtained to accept the office. The matter was then
carried up to Synod, and its Commission consisting of
Revs. William Slater and William Milroy, with elder
David Boyd, organized the Linn Grove congregation,
without deacons, in September, 1856. There were
twenty-five members, and Samuel Hawthorne and
Daniel Cook were chosen ruling elders. The first pastor

* Sketch by Rev. J. W. Dill, in R. P. & C, 1884, p. 437.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 353

was the Rev. Charles D. Trumbull, ordained and
installed in charge in January, 1864. At this time
they erected the present church building. Mr. Trum-
bull remained in charge ten years, and until his release
in April, 1874. The Rev. Matthew A. Gault was
ordained and installed pastor in May, 1875, and
released in October, 1877. The Rev. John W. Dill
was installed pastor in July, 1881, and was released
in September, 1887. The elders have been Samuel
Hawthorne, Daniel Cook, John Logan, Thomas Mc-
Connell, Stephen Bayles, William J. McClemment and

A. A. McKee.

Morning Sun. Around this thriving town a con-
gregation was gathered, and formed from that of
:Sharon in July, 1873, with forty-six members. A
•comfortable frame church was erected in Morning Sun,
and they have enjoyed a good degree of prosperity.
The Rev. Charles D. Trumbull, the first and present
pastor, was installed in April, 1874, Among the elders
here have been Stephen Bayles, A. W. Cavin, George
Cunningham, John Mclntire and S. E. McElhinney.

Rehoboth. In the spring of 1854, a colony of
•Covenanters emigrated from Pennsylvania and settled
near the present town of Wyman, in Louisa County,
and were organized as the Rehoboth congregation in
•October, 1854. In December, 1854, the Rev. Robert

B. Cannon, from whose congregation in Pennsylvania
most of the members had emigrated, was installed
the pastor. He remained in charge thirteen years, and
gathered quite a flourishing congregation. In August,
1874, the Rev. Edward G. Elsey was ordained and

354 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

installed in charge, and remained nearly seven years,
and until his release in April, 1881. In February,
1886, the Rev. James A. Black, the present pastor^
was installed. They possess a good house of worship..
Of the eldership have been A. Charleton, Jacob W.
Willson, Joseph Purvis, William McCrea, John Dougherty,.
H. F. and L. M. Samson, William Martin, Thompson-
Graham, J. B. Dodds and Thomas G. Dunn.

Washington. The congregation now collected in
Washington was organized as Washington and Amboy,
in November, 1863. The Rev. Samuel M. Stevenson,
who had missionated in this field for several years, was
installed pastor in February, 1865, and remained until
October, 1871. In October, 1873, the Rev. W. Pollock-
Johnston was installed in charge. He built up a good
congregation and conducted a flourishing Academy. He
was released in August, 1881. In December, 1882, the
Rev. Thomas A. H. Wylie, the present pastor, was
ordained and installed in charge. The Amboy branch
was dropped, and the members of the old Ainsworth con-
gregation were received in October, 1873. Of the elders-
here are mentioned Hugh Thompson, David Porter, John
Rowan, J. R. Kirkpatrick, W. J. Clyde, J. H. Willson,
R. M. Stevenson, David Love, W. S. Wylie, W. B. Hay
and H. F. Samson.

Burlington. At different times the city of Bur-
lington offered possibilities for becoming a center of
Covenanterism, and, in 1879, was regarded as a mission
station. In 188 1, the Rev. T. A. H. Wylie labored here
with a good degree of success under the Central Board of

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 35 S

Missions. The members there are in connection with
the Sharon congregation.

Davenport. In some respects the city of Daven-
port was the most promising point in the State of
Iowa. For many years it was the only place above
St. Louis where the Mississippi was spanned by a
bridge, and, being situated most beautifully at the foot
of the Rock Island rapids, in a healthy location and
commanding commercial importance, was a field well
worth cultivating. A congregation was organized in
this city in September, 1864, principally through the
efforts of John B. McElroy. It received supplies from
Presbytery, but, by the removal of members, it became
disorganized in May, 1869, and continued to occasionally
receive supplies as a mission station until May, 1883.

HOPKINTON. Covenanters settled in Delaware County,
and in the vicinity of this village, as early as 1850.
In the fall of 1855, the Rev. William L. Roberts, D. D.,
removed from Sterling, New York, and took charge of
this promising field.* The congregation was organized
in April, 1856, and was called "Maquoketa," after the
river that flows past the village of Hopkinton, and was
changed to the present name in 1879. Robert Gilmore
and J. B. Whittaker were chosen elders, and James
Kilpatrick, deacon. Mr. Roberts continued as stated
supply until May, i860, when he was regularly installed
pastor. In December, 1864, the pastor was removed by
death. In April, 1867, the Rev. David H. Coulter was
ordained and installed pastor, and remained in charge
until October, 1874. In June, 1875, the Rev. Robert

* Items from Mr. James Grier, Sand Spring, Iowa.

356 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

C. Wylie was installed, and demitted the charge in
October, 1882, to labor in the interests of National
Reform. In September, 1886, the Rev. Thomas H.
Acheson was ordained and installed in charge, and is
the present efificient pastor. Of the principal members
have been James Grier, Robert Gilmore, Peter Guthrie,
James Kilpatrick, Andrew Orr, J. B. Whittaker, William
McGlade, James Douglas, William Morrison, H. M.
Johnston, Patterson O. Joseph, R. L. Wallace, William
McCullough.

Grove Hh.l. Emigrants, chiefly from southern Ohio,
settled in the vicinity of Grove Hill, in Bremer County,
in 1856, and continued to gather until the congregation
was organized in October, 1861. The Rev. Robert
Hutcheson continued to supply them until his installa-
tion as pastor in April, 1863. He resigned the charge
in May, 1867, and supplied them until the congregation
was disorganized by emigration in May, 1869.

Hickory Grove. A few families of Covenanters
from Ohio settled in Monroe County, and not far from
Albia, in 1863. They were followed by the Rev. James
Love in 1864, and he ministered to them until the
organization as Albia in October, 1865. The name
was changed to Hickory Grove in May, 1872. In
April, 1866, Mr. Love was installed pastor, and con-
tinued in this relation until old age caused his release
in September, 1881. In September, 1882, the Rev.
James A. Thompson, the present pastor, was installed
in charge. Of the elders have been Joseph Purvis
and James Boyd.

Walnut City. A society of Covenanters settled in

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 35/

Appanoose County, and near this city, in 1865, and
were organized into a congregation in March, 1868.
In September, 1870, the Rev. Isaiah Faris became the
first and only pastor, and was released in May, 1877.
Not obtaining another pastor, many emigrated, and the
congregation was disorganized in April, 1884, and was
regarded as a mission station. James W. Dougherty,
Matthew Chestnut, Samuel Milligan and Joseph
Stevenson were among the elders.

Clarinda. Emigrants chiefly from Sharon congrega-
tion settled in the far west Page County, as the nucleus
of the present Clarinda congregation, in 1852. In
those days there were no railroads in this country,
and, by journeying in wagons through an almost
unsettled country they found a resting place on the
rolhng prairie along the Nodaway river.* In December,
1855, they received an organization when there were
thirteen families and thirty-three members. In the fall
of 1856, the Rev. Joseph McCracken found his way
among them as the pastor-elect, but, by the badness
of the roads and the isolated location, the Commis-
sion did not install him until July, 1857. He remained
in charge less than two years. In September, 1862,
the Rev. David McKee, the present pastor, was installed
in charge. Since his settlement the country has been
wholly transformed by the building of numerous rail-
roads and the fine cultivation of the rich prairies. Of
the families are those of Willson, Hutcheson, Glasgow,
Brown, Gilmore, Linn, Caskey, McDowell, Tippin,

* Reformed Presbyterian, Vol. 20, p. 128.
22

35^ HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Connerry, Neill, Aikin. Whitehill, McKee, Pinkerton,
McCalla, McFarland.

Long Branxh. A little south of Clarinda, and along
the Missouri State line, is situated the flourishing con-
gregation of Long Branch. They were organized in
April, 1877, and for two years enjoyed the stated
labors of the Rev. Matthew A. Gault. Mr. Gault was
installed the pastor in October, 1880, and remained
in charge two years, when he was released to enter
upon the work of National Reform in the West. In
October, 1887. the Rev. B. Melancthon Sharp was
ordained and installed pastor, . and is now in charge.
Among the elders here are J. H. Walkinshaw, William
McCrory and John McElroy. The congregation suffered
the loss of their church building by a cyclone a few
years ago, but a more commodious one Avas soon
erected in the town of Blanchard.

MISSOURI.
Saint Louis. The natural location of the city of
Saint Louis on "the father of waters," with the bound-
less resources of the agricultural West, with its
mineral, manufacturing and commercial advantages, with
transportation by water and rail, at once commanded
the name of the chief city in the Mississippi Valley.
A few Covenanters had gathered in this emporium of
the West as early as 1840, but with no opportunity
to wait upon their own services. The congregation
was organized in the old Associate Reformed Church,
April 2, 1846, by Rev. James Wallace, with elders

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 359

James Finley and John Donnelly, of Illinois."' Henr}-
Dean and John Moffit were chosen ruling elders.
They worshipped principally in the Associate Reformed
Church. In July, 1852, the Rev. Andrew C. Todd
was ordained and installed pastor, and at that time
there were forty members. In the following year,
through the liberality of A. G. Gamble, Esq., then
Postmaster of Saint Louis, they were put in possession
of a lot of ground, now at the corner of Gamble
Avenue and Mercer street, where they erected a church
building. Mr. Todd resigned the charge in April,
1857. The Rev. Joseph McCracken was installed
pastor in October, 1859, and was pastor for fifteen
years, when he was translated to Geneva College in
September, 1874. In September, 1877, the Rev. James
R. Hill was installed pastor, and released in April,
1885. Uniting with Staunton, Illinois, they obtained
a part of the time of the Rev. Ellsworth M. Smith, who
was ordained and installed in charge in May, 1887.
Among the principal families here may be named those
of Henry Dean, Dr. John McKinley, John Moffit, George
Thomas, Thomas Cox, Silas and Robert J. Smith,
Daniel Williamson, James Kirk, Samuel W. McClurkin,
Thomas Matthews, John Gass, William Patterson, James
Orr, Henry and James Martin, Rev. James Wallace,
John Ingram, William C. Bovard, Zaccheus G. Willson,
J. P. Montgomery.

Sylvania. a few Covenanters settled in Dade
County, south-western Missouri, and were gathered into
a society chiefly through the efforts of the Rev. James

* Covenanter, Vol. 2, p. 21.

36o HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Wallace. They were organized into a congregation,
August 10, 1 871, with forty-nine members. Fourteen
of these were received from the Free Presbyterian,
United Presbyterian, Cumberland Presbyterian, Methodist
and Roman Catholic Churches.* For nearly five years
they were supplied by Presbytery, and, in 1876, the
Rev. Josiah Dodds labored among them for two years.
He was installed pastor in May, 1878, and is now in
charge. W. M. Edgar, William Taylor, R. C. McGee,
Thomas Crozier, James Coulter, Philip Eckard, Hugh
McCluey and Dr. Robert Dunlap have been active and
representative members.

Cameron. This was a mission station, and for several
years supplied by the Rev. Robert B. Cannon. No
congregation was organized.

Kansas City. A few Covenanters are now living
in this rapidly growing city, and, chiefly through the
efforts of Mr. David Boyd, arrangements are being
made for the organization of a mission of which Rev.
J. Milligan Wylie is in charge.

KANSAS.

The congregations in the great West have been so
recently organized, and the membership so changeable,
that the history of Covenanterism in this vast region
is not ready to be written. With few exceptions,
they have at one time been cultivated by the Central
Board of Missions, and some of them are now receiving
help from that source. Numerous also have been the

*A'. P. d- C, 1871, p. 317.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 36 1

laborers who have spent a few months in different
localities. Societies are springing up all over the West
and loudly calling for help. Home Mission work is
employing laborers whose duty it is to gather scattered
families into societies and congregations.

Olathe. This is a growing town and destined
soon to became a suburb of Kansas City. It is the
capital of Johnston County, and in the eastern part
of the State. The congregation was organized in April,

1865, through the labors of the Rev. William W. Mc-
Millan. Mr. McMillan was installed pastor in March,

1866, and labored for nearly twenty years and until
his release in October, 1885. The Rev. Joseph H.
Wylie was installed pastor in October, 1887. Among
the families here are those of Dr. Bell, Samuel Dickey,
J. M. Hutcheson, Joseph Thompson, W. S. Mitchell,
Thompson and Alexander Moore, John Robinson,
Walter McCrea, Samuel and Robert Galbraith, James
M. Renfrew, John Acheson, James Ritchie and James
Hunter.

Pleasant Ridge. A few miles from Olathe, in
Johnston County, Pleasant Ridge is located, and was
originally a part of the former congregation. It received
a separate organization in August, 1871. The Rev.
Matthew Wilkin was the first pastor, installed for a.
part of his time, in May, 1874, and was removed by
death in July, 1880. In October, 1881, the Rev. R..
M. C. Thompson, the present pastor, was installed..
Among the elders have been J. M. Marvin, John
Sterritt, T. M. and James Hutcheson.

Winchester. This is the largest congregation of

362 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Covenanters in Kansas, and surrounds the growing
town of Winchester, the capital of Jefferson County,
It was built up chiefly through the labors of the Rev.
Josiah Dodds, and was organized in September, 1868.
In November, 1868, Mr. Dodds became the pastor,
and remained in this relation eight years. In August,
1877, the present pastor, the Rev. David H. Coulter,
was installed in charge. Among the members here are
James Thompson, John Moore, David Paris, George
Thomas, W. R. Curry, Hugh Selders, John R. Reynolds,
Samuel and David Dill, William McCrea, David Logan,
James R. Mclntire, James White and John Carson.

North Cedar. North-west of Winchester, and in
ihe adjoining County of Jackson, is the flourishing con-
gregation of North Cedar. It was cultivated by the
Rev. J. S. T. Milligan and organized in October,
1 87 1. Since October, 1872, Mr. Milligan has been the
pastor. Of the elders have been James Keers, J. M.
.Law, J. L. Wright and William Wylie.

ESKRIDGE. This promising congregation is located
in Wabaunsee County, south-west of the city of
Topeka, and was organized in April, 1884. In August,
1886, the Rev. Nathan M. Johnston became the
pastor, and is in charge.

Hebron. There are two congregations in Clay
County, and near Clay Centre. They were organized
in November, 1871, as Republican City and Eagle
Bend, and changed to Hebron in May, 1876. The
Rev. J. S. T. Milligan supplied it for several years.
The Rev. Samuel M. Stevenson was installed pastor
in October, 1874, and released in April, 1876. In

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 363

November, 1876, the Rev. Matthew Wilkin was installed
for part of his time, and was removed by death in
July, 1880. In August, 1882, the Rev. James R.
Latimer, the present pastor, was installed in charge.
J. B. Porter, John T. Sanderson and A. Copeland
have been elders.

Tabor. The other congregation in Clay County, and
near Clay Centre, is Tabor. It was originally a part
of the Republican City and Eagle Bend congregation,
and received a separate existence in October, 1873.
Since October, 1874, the Rev. Samuel M. Stevenson has
been the pastor. Of the elders are W. B. Whittaker,
William Rodgers and W. B. McElroy.

Jewell. On the northern central border of Kansas
is located the congregation of Jewell, situated in the
south-eastern part of Jewell County. It was organized
from the Rubens and Holmwood congregation, in July,
1885. James M. Adams and S. Y. Hutcheson are corre-
spondents.

Holmwood. This is situated in the northern part of
Jewell County, and not far from Mankato. It included
Rubens, and was organized in September, 1881. J. B,
Alexander, John A. Mclntire and George M. Tippin,
are elders.

Sterling. Near the center of the State, in Rice
County, and upon the Arkansas river, is located the
congregation of Sterling. It was organized in November,
1877, and the Rev. John M. Armour was in charge
until May, 1885. The Rev. Preston H. Wylie became
the pastor in April, 1887, and is now in charge.
Among the principal families are those of W. J.

364 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Connery, James Humphreys, R. H. Matthews, J. M.
Davis, William Lemon, J. Selfridge, James Frem, William
Davis and Nathaniel Patton.

Rochester. Some forty miles south of Sterling is
the young congregation of Rochester, in Kingman
County. It was organized in December, 1886.

QuiNTER. This newly organized congregation is
situated in Gove County, and in the western part of
the State. It was organized in July, 1887.

BURDETT. Some fifty miles west of Sterling, and
not far from Larned, Pawnee County, lies the congre-
gation of Burdett, organized in July, 1887, It is
supplied by the Central Board of Missions.

NEBRASKA.

Wahoo. The town of Wahoo is the capital of
Saunders County, and situated some forty miles directly
west of the city of Omaha. The other society of the
congregation is at Fremont, north-east of Wahoo, in
Dodge County, and on the Platte river. They were long
cultivated by the Central Board of Missions, and
organized as the Wahoo and Fremont congregation, in
December, 1871, with thirteen members. In October,
1877, the Rev. James A. Thompson became the pastor,
and was released in May, 1880. The Rev. Dr. Hugh
P. McClurkin, the present pastor, was installed in
February, 1884. J. M. Lee, Joseph Manners and Frank
L. McClelland are among the leading elders.

Superior. Situated around the growing town of
Superior, in Nuckolls County, on the Republican river

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 365

and near the Kansas line, is located this thriving
congregation. It was organized in September, 1881,
and the Rev. Robert C. Allen became the pastor in
December, 1882, and was released in October, 1884,
The congregation lost its organization in May, 1885,
but was re-organized in August, 1885. The Rev.
Patterson P. Boyd was installed pastor in March, 1888.

Beulah. This congregation is situated in Webster
County, on the Republican river, some fifteen miles
west of Superior. It was organized in September, 1881.
The Rev. William S. Fulton has been pastor for a part
of his time since March, 1885.

ECKLEY. Some miles north of Beiilah, in Webster
County, lies the congregation of Eckley, organized in
November, 1878, with seventeen members. The Rev.
William S. Fulton has been the pastor for part of his
time since March, 1885. David and D. D. Mearns,,
Adam Orr and William H. Middleton are among the
leading members and officers.

COLORADO.

Evans. A colony of Covenanters, chiefly from-
Southern Illinois and lead by the Rev. Andrew C.
Todd, settled around the town of Evans, in Weld
County, in the northern part of this State, in the
spring of 1871. The situation is some forty-five miles
north of the city of Denver, and about twenty-five
miles east of the base of the Rocky Mountains, and
in full view of Long's Peak which is covered with
perpetual snow. The congregation received an organiza- .

366 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

tion in August, 1871, and Mr. Todd continued to
minister to them. They erected a neat brick church
in the town of Evans. Mr. Todd was formally installed
pastor in August, 1874.

La Junta. This society is situated in Bent County,
in south-eastern Colorado. This is a new field. There
live the families of J. C. Uodds and J. M. Hill.

Denver. A few families of Covenanters are living
in this city, but no organization has yet been effected.

WASHINGTON TERRITORY.
Sunnvdale. This society of Covenanters is situated
near the villages of Sunnydale and Kent, some fifteen
miles from the city of Seattle, on Puget Sound. In
1885, two families from Lake Reno, Minnesota, settled
in this locality and they were joined by elder Dr.
Ewing from Round Prairie, Minnesota, two years later.
In October, 1887, they were visited by the Rev. N.
R. Johnston, of California, who preached to them
several Sabbaths. These families of Covenanters hold
society meetings, conduct a prosperous Sabbath School,
and form the nucleus of a congregation. The principal
families are those of Dr. W. H. PLwing, D. S. Elsey
and S. G. Clark.

CALIFORNIA.

Oakland. Covenanters have reached the Golden

•Gate. In 1875, the Rev. N. R. Johnston and family

removed to this city and opened amission among the

■Chinese. A few scattered families of Covenanters reside

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 367

in different parts of the State. In August, 1879, a
mission congregation was organized in Oakland, by a
Commission of Synod consisting of Rev. N. R. Johnston,
and elders S. M. McCloy and David Mitchell, of Santa
Anna. Twenty-two members were received, ten of
whom were Chinese converts, and John Rice and Ju
Sing were ordained ruling elders. Mr, Johnston was
placed in charge. By the removal of elder Rice the
congregation was disorganized in May, 1885, and Mr.
Johnston continues to preach in connection with the
mission.

No doubt in many of the States and Territories of
the great West there are numerous scattered families
of Covenanters, but so far as is known to collaters
of statistics, all the organized societies have been
noticed.

COVENANTERISM IN THE SOUTH.
During the persecution and banishment of the Cove-
nanters from Scotland over two hundred years ago,
many of them settled on the Eastern Shore of Mary-
land, in parts of Virginia and South Carolina, but
they formed no separate societies, and in time went
into the different Presbyterian Churches as they were
formed in America. During the rapid flow of emigra-
tion to this country previous to 1770, the Covenanters
were not distinguished by historians from the Scotch-
Irish Presbyterians, and the early history of these
people, as a distinct class, is lost.

368 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

MARYLAND.

Baltimore. As early as the year 1797, ^ f^^^' families,
of Covenanters resided in the city of Baltimore. At
the formation of the Reformed Presbytery, in the spring
of 1798, the Revs. William Gibson and James McKinney
were directed to visit the people in this city. In June,.
1799, the Revs. Samuel B. Wylie and Alexander Mc-
Leod, at that time licensed, were appointed to preach
here, which they did as often as convenient. In 1802,.
the Rev. Samuel B. Wylie accepted a call to the united
congregations of Philadelphia and Baltimore, and was.
installed in charge in November, 1803.* Baltimore had
no organization and was in a feeble condition. Mr.
Wylie continued to preach here until 1806, when he
demitted this branch and confined his labors to Phila-
delphia. The society continued to increase by emigration,
chiefly from Scotland, and they continued faithful in
the society meetings. In 181 2, they bought the old
Associate Reformed Church, at the corner of Aisquith
and Fayette streets, and enjoyed regular supplies. The
students of the Philadelphia Seminary were frequent in
their visits, and gave the Baltimoreans an opportunity
to choose a pastor. In the spring of 1818, they invited
the Rev. John Gibson, then a licentiate, and who had
preached for them a few days, to return to Baltimore,
urging that the prospects for a large congregation
were very flattering. This he declined to do; partly
from motives of delicacy, and partly because ordered
elsewhere by the direction of Presbytery. A unanimous

* From the Congregational records and other sources.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 369

^call was made out in his favor in April, 1818, and
accepted. In July, 18 18, Mr. Gibson came to Baltimore
and began his labors, but unforeseen circumstances
delayed his ordination five months. The Baltimore
congregation was regularly organized by Revs. Alexander
McLeod, Robert Lusk and William Gibson, December
15, 18 1 8, with forty members, and Rev. John Gibson
was ordained and installed pastor. James McCauseland,
John McLean and John Anderson were ordained ruling
elders, and John Mortimer was appointed to read out
the lines, and sing the few tunes selected by the Board
of Trustees. Probably the first Covenanters in Baltimore
were James Fletcher, James McCauseland, Robert
Carothers and John McLean from Scotland; Mrs. James
Black, John Anderson and Samuel Moody, from Ireland.
In 1 8 19, emigration from Europe began to flow in
rapidly, and among those who were added to the
Church this year were Samuel Boyd, Archibald McGill,
Alexander McCracken, John Neilson and James Wooden.
The sacrament of the Lord's supper was, for the first
time, administered on December 19, 18 19, and the pastor
was assisted by Revs. Alexander McLeod and Robert
Lusk. In 1820, John Milroy, William and Samuel
Gumming, and Samuel Russell, from Scotland; and
Patrick May and Patrick Boyd, from Ireland, were
among those added to the congregation. In 1821, forty
persons were added to the Church, among whom were
the families of David Graham, Dr. J. Harper, John
McElroy, John Wood, Walter Russell, James Kirkpatrick,
John McElwee, Hugh Connell, Samuel Henry, James
Logan, Willoughby Lewis, Robert Bates, John Little,

370 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Joshua David, John Murphy and Arthur Baxter. In
1822, eighteen were added, among whom were James
Crawford, John Campbell, Hugh McConnell, John Davis,
James Brown, Samuel Morrison and Alexander Scott,
Willoughby Lewis and David Graham were added to
the session. May 18, 1822. In 1823, thirty-five more
members were added to the roll, chiefly from Scotland.
Of these emigrants were John Waugh, James Mc-
Collum, Samuel Boyd, Edward Spence, Patrick Dickey,
George Smith, John Boyd, John Fisher, Jarnes Char-
tiers, Alexander Hamilton, John Hamel, Daniel Lough-
ridge, William Stavely, William Waddell, Moses Roney,
William Johnston, James Dykes, Edward Hamilton,
William Pettigrew, John McQuown and John Arnold.
For five or six years the congregation added many
members to its communion, and, in 1830, was one
of the largest and wealthiest congregations in the
body. There were over three hundred members.
John Mortimer, Patrick Dickey and James Smith were
ordained ruling elders in April, 1828. The church
now became too small to accommodate the worshippers
who flocked to hear the eloquence of Mr. Gibson.
In 1829, the church at Aisquith and Fayette streets
was sold, and the congregation bought a lar^e and
commodious church at the corner of Holliday and
Saratoga streets. Here large audiences waited upon
the services, and many were added to the Church. A
laxness in discipline followed this great success, and
members were not always excluded from secret societies
and the privileges of citizens. As a natural conse-
quence, during the division of the Church in 1833,.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 37 I

Mr. Gibson and nearly the whole congregation, left
the principles of the Church, and went into the Pres-
byterian and other bodies. The faithful remnant were
left in charge of the church property, but it was
too large for them to use, and a debt was upon it.
They then organized themselves into a society, sold
the church and paid off the debt, and the same year
bought a little mission church on Gallow's Hill, with-
out seats and a brick floor, which is the original of
the present church building on Harford Avenue and
Chase street. They spent a considerable sum on
repairs, and asked for supplies. At the re-organization,
November lo, 1833, there were about forty members,
and James Hunter, Samuel Reid and Hugh Crocket
were added to the session. During this year Patrick
Morrow, John Dickson, David Warwick, Robert Mc-
Rosey, William Laughlin and John McCrory were
among those added to the Church. Soon they were
followed by James Duncan, Patrick Hall, Andrew
Mabin and William Robinson. The Rev. William L.
Roberts was installed pastor in January, 1835. During
this year Matthew Cowan, James Dickson, John Henry,
James Jackson, Samuel Russell, William J. Dickey,
James Ganston, Gregory Barrett, James Stewart and
John Russell were added to the membership. John
Ford and William Wylie were elected elders, January
23, 1837. During this 3'ear, Mr. Roberts made a
protracted Avar upon the milk dealers who delivered
milk upon the Sabbath day. As many influential
members were engaged in this business, the Church
suffered greatly by their suspension, and the abandon-

372 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

ment by others. Mr. Roberts resigned the charge in
October, 1837, ^^^ James Hunter, Hugh Crocket, and
others, went with him to SterHng, New York. Among
those who supplied during the next few years, was
Francis Gailey, whom they called. Mr. W. J. Dickey
was the commissioner to the Presbytery meeting in
New York to urge the call, but upon the way with
Mr. Gailey he discovered his duplicity, and that he
■did not intend to accept their invitation. The call
was declined. Mr. Gailey frequently returned to Balti-
more and preached, and, when he made defection and
was suspended in October, 1838, he took the great
majority of the members with him, and they retained
the church property. The congregation was again dis-
organized, and the few faithful Covenanters were left
without a house of worship. They resorted to the
prayer meetings, which were held from house to house,
and generally at the home of Mr. William Gumming
in the eastern suburb of the city. Preaching was
occasionally enjoyed, and they were visited by Revs.
David Scott, Thomas Hanna and Charles B. McKee,
The case of the right of the property entered the
civil courts, and the trial was postponed from time to
time. In 1842, the congregation was re-organized and
the Rev. Charles B. McKee, to whom all honor is due
for the existence of the congregation, was made stated
supply in 1844. He preached and taught a classical
school, and in this way the cause was maintained.
The small congregation now worshipped in Union Hall,
on the corner of Baltimore and Holliday streets, and
subsequently in the church of the New Jerusalem

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 373

Society at the corner of Baltimore and Exeter streets.
At the re-organization of the congregation, July 17,
1842, James Wright and James Dickson were chosen
ruling elders. The Rev. Charles B. McKee was installed
pastor in December, 1846, and the congregation began
to grow. After the church property had been in the
courts for ten years, and every effort had been made
to obtain possession of the church, a present member
of the congregation entered the church and remained
there until it was opened by the authorities, and when
he was found in the building, the court decided that
the Covenanters held the property by right of posses-
sion. After paying a part of the costs, the congregation
has worshipped in their own house unmolested for
forty years. The Rev. Charles B. McKee left the
communion of the Church in December, 1852, and the
congregation suffered another loss. They numbered
about sixty members, and were determined to make an
effort to obtain another pastor. The Rev. John Craw-
ford was ordained and installed pastor in November,
1853. Henry Smyth and Patrick Morrow were added
to the session in May, 1854. Mr. Crawford died in
September, 1856, much lamented by the congregation
and Church. The Rev. William W. McMillan was
ordained and installed in charge in December, 1859.
D. James Cumming and William McLean were
ordained elders in November, i860. Mr. McMillan had
a great deal to contend with, as times were financially
hard and the war of the rebellion was in progress.
The city was in arms and many of the members had
enlisted. Mr: McMillan resigned the charge in May,

374 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

1863, and for various reasons the congregation was
greatly reduced. In August, 1864, the Rev. W. Pollock
Johnston was installed in charge. In 1868, the church
was wholly remodeled and a small Sabbath School
room was put under the church. Matthew H. Wright
and D. Oliver Brown were ordained elders in October,
1 87 1. Mr. Johnston resigned the charge in July, 1873.
The Rev. John Lynd was ordained and. installed in
charge in December, 1873, and resigned in November,
1877. In October, 1878, the Rev. Alfred D. Crowe
was ordained and installed in charge. Captain James
M. Shackelford and Joseph M. Smith were chosen
ruling elders in November, 1880, and in October, 1881,
James S. Mullen and George A. Maben were added
to the session. Mr. Crowe resigned in August, 1884,
on account of impaired health, and died a few months
thereafter in Rochester, New York. In November,
1885, W. Melancthon Glasgow, the present pastor,
was ordained and installed in charge. Among the
members not already mentioned are recorded the
names of George Crocket, John Cummings, John
Coulter, Alexander Kinnear, John McGowan, Robert
Lamb, John Rodgers, William Ross, John McLean,
Professors James R., Hugh, and Alexander M. Newell,
Dr. John Dickson, Alexander Harbison, John McKinney,
Fergus and James Johnston, William Knox, John B.
Crocket, WilHam W. Russell, H. W. Calderwood,
Thomas Moore, William Irwin, John Wright, James
Maben, W. C. Purvis, Thomas McGowan, James
Mitchell, Adam Wallace, W. J. Hughes, Robert Hunter,
Robert Hughes, Captain William Hunt, George W.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 375

Marshall, George B. and George M. Cummings, John
H. McGowan, Joseph Bowes, J. Renwick Cummings,
J. T. Plummer, Walter Nicholson, John F. Bachen.

VIRGINIA.

SUFP^OLK. A few families from Western Pennsylvania
removed to the country below the Chesapeake Bay, and
near the town of Suffolk, in the south-eastern corner
of Virginia, and were organized as a mission station in
November, 1876. They were sustained chiefly by the
Philadelphia Presbytery ; and the ministers of that court,
and the Rev. James L. Pinkerton supplied them for
some time. The mission was disorganized in May, 1881,
by the removal of some of the colony, and others going
into the United Presbyterian Church. Among the
families of this colony were those of John Haslett,
John Galbraith, Thompson Gilleland and John Steele.

TENNESSEE.

HePHZIBAH. This once flourishing congregation was
situated along the Elk river, near Fayetteville, in
Lincoln County. As early as the year 1807, the families
of Alexander Morton, John Paul, John Murdoch, and
others, from South Carolina, located in this vicinity, and
were visited by the Rev. Thomas Donnelly.* In 1809,
and in 18 10, other families from South Carolina joined
them, and the Rev. John Kell preached to them. The
congregation was organized June 12, 1812, as the Elk

* Reformed Preshytetian Advocate, I'&'ji, p. 160.

376 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

congregation, by Rev. John Reilly, of South Carolina,
and elder William Edgar, of Duck river, with eighteen
members. At this time Samuel Little and Alexander
Morton were chosen ruling elders. The sacrament of
the Lord's supper was administered in the open woods,
God's first temple, beneath the shade of a wide spreading
beech. In 1815, they were visited by Robert Lusk,
licentiate, and, in 1818, they called the Rev. Samuel
Wylie, but he declined on account of the prevalence of
slavery. In the spring of 1822, Hugh McMillan, and
in the fall of the same year, Gavin McMillan, came
and preached with much acceptance to the people.
Rev. Gavin McMillan declined a call tendered him. The
Rev. Robert Lusk dispensed the next communion in a
grove, in October, 1822, at which time James Blair,
John Carithers and James Morton were added to the
session, the former elders having removed to Illinois.
In 1823, they erected a log church. In 1825, the Rev.
Robert McKee, licentiate, preached six months and
received a unanimous call. He declined on account of
the prevalence of slavery. In 1826, the Rev. James
Faris visited them, and the congregation had grown to
one hundred members. In 1828, Revs. James Faris and
Ebenezer Cooper dispensed the sacraments, and Thomas
Morton, Thomas Blair, Andrew Carithers and William
Wyatt were added to the session. Mr. Cooper was
now called to the pastorate, accepted, returned to
the Northern Presbytery, and was ordained in June,
1828. When he came back to the congregation for
settlement, which now changed its name from Elk to
Hephzibah, he declined being installed pastor, giving as

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 37/

reasons the prevalence of slavery and the great distance
from his ministerial brethren? In 1832, Mr. Cooper, and
the great majority of the congregation, emigrated to
Fayette County, Indiana, on account of the evils of
slavery. In 1833, the society became identified with
the New School body, and is now about extinct.

Duck River. A few families from South Carolina
settled along Duck river, in Hickman County, south-
west of the city of Nashville, in 18 10, but afterwards
removed to Illinois and Indiana.

RODGERSVILLE. A small colony from South Carolina,
and emigrants from Ireland, settled along the Holston
river, Hawkins County, in East Tennessee, in the early
part of the present century. Some of them afterwards
emigrated to Cincinnati, Ohio, and other free States.
Among these families were Patrick Murphy, Dr. Archi-
bald and Samuel McKinney.

ALABAMA.

Selma. The city of Selma was selected by the
Central Board of Missions as the seat of the Southern
Mission in 1874, and the Rev. Lewis Johnston was
placed in charge. The Selma congregation was organ-
ized May 21, 1875, with twenty-five members, four of
whom were certified from the Baptist Church, three
from the Presbyterian, one from the Methodist, and
twelve were received from the world. Lewis Johnston,
Sr., and George M. Elliot, previously ordained for the
field, and Daniel W. Boxley were chosen elders.
This was the first Covenanter congregation of the

2,7^ HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

sable race ever organized in America, and the Rev.
Lewis Johnston was installed pastor. Mr. Johnston
was suspended in November, 1876. The Rev. George
M. Elliot, the present pastor, was installed in Decem-
ber, 1877. John Willdee and James H. Pickens were
elected elders. The Revs. Hugh W. Reed and J. W.
Dill preached at Pleasant Grove, six miles from Selma,
where there is conducted a flourishing Sabbath School.

gp:orgia.

There was a society of Covenanters near the present
town of Louisville, in eastern Georgia, as early as
1780, to which the Rev. William Martin frequently
preached. At the meeting of the Committee of the
Reformed Presbytery at Rocky Creek, South Carolina,
in February, 1801, a petition was received from this
society for ministerial assistance. The Committee
•directed the Rev. Thomas Donnelly to visit the society,
and if he found it practicable to attach it to the
Rocky Creek congregation ; and if not, to endeavor
to send them supplies. There is no record, however,
of any organization in Georgia, although groups of
families lived within the limits of this State.

NORTH CAROLINA.

Charlotte. A large number of Covenanters lived
within the bounds of Mecklenberg County, and were
visited by Rev. William Martin previous to 1785.
They gradually migrated back to South Carolina, and

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 379

other States, after the war of the Revolution, and no
organization beyond the society meeting was ever
effected.

Statesville. Still farther north in Iredell County,
and near the present village of Statesville, was a
society of Covenanters in 1780, also visited by the
Rev. William Martin. Indeed all through the southern
and eastern parts of North Carolina there were a few
societies occasionally visited by the ministers in the
South, but were never formally organized into congrega-
tions or had a settled ministr)\

SOUTH CAROLINA.

Chester District. In the latter part of the seven-
teenth century a few banished Covenanters settled at
Port Royal and in the vicinity of Charleston, but on
account of the unhealthy condition of the country
they either migrated to Chester District or returned
to Scotland. Soon Chester District became the strong-
hold of Covenanterism in the South. In 1750, soon
after the removal of the Rev. Alexander Craighead
to the South, a few members of the " Craighead
Society" at Octorara, Pennsylvania, and other Cove-
nanters from Virginia and North Carolina, settled in
this region. Among these were Hugh and John Mc-
Donald. They settled along the Rocky Creek . and
were the pioneers of Chester.* John McDonald and
his wife were both killed by the Cherokee Indians in
1 76 1, and their children were made prisoners. In

* Sketch by D. G. Stinson per R. B. Elder, Guthriesville, S. C.

380 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

1755, emigrants from Ireland began to settle up the
country, and among these were many Covenanter
families. They built a union church and the Rev.
William Richardson, of Waxhaws, became the preacher.
The church was called "Catholic," because Presby-
terians generally worshipped there, and this general
meeting house was situated on the Rocky Mount
road, some fifteen miles south-east of the town of
Chester. In 1770, the Covenanters separated from the
others and held society meetings. They then wrote to
Ireland for a preacher and made every effort to obtain
a minister. In accordance with their wishes, the Rev.
William Martin, of Ballymoney, Ireland, came with a
colony of his people in 1772, and settled along the
Rocky Creek. No imaginary picture has been drawn
when a description of the manners and customs of these
patriotic Covenanters is given by Mrs. E. F. Ellet in
her "Domestic History of the American Revolution,""
and written by Mr. Daniel G. Stinson, whose father
was a member of this colony. This chapter of inter-
esting Covenanter history will here be inserted :

An interesting glimpse into the life and character of the Scotch-
Irish patriots of South Carolina at the period of the Revolution is
afforded in the history of Mrs. Green, daughter of Robert Stephenson
(or Stinson,) a native of Scotland, who was born in the County
Antrim, Ireland, in 1750. The family was reared in the strictest
tenents of the Covenanter faith, in the vicinity of Ballymoney, under
the pastoral care of the Rev. William Martin, who, in 1772, emigrated
to America, and settled on the Rocky Creek, South Carolina. Many
of the congregation quitted their country with him, and followed their
pastor under impulse of the same desire of the " freedom to worship
God." Among these emigrants were James, William and Elizabeth
Stinson, and their brother-in-law, William Anderson, who married Nancy

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 38 I

Stinson before the sailing of the ship. Her wedded life thus com-
menced with a voluntary renunciation of home and the society of
early friends, to seek a new country and to encounter unforeseen
privations and difficulties. Bounty lands had been bestowed by the
government as inducements to emigration, and those who received such
warrants, upon their arrival took great care to fix their location as
near as possible to a central point, where a meeting house might be
built. Their spirit was that of the ancient patriarch, who first built
an altar. The spot selected for this purpose was the dividing ridge
between Great and Little Rocky Creeks. Here, in the summer of 1773,
these pious Covenanters might be seen from day to day, felling trees
and clearing a space of ground upon which they reared a large log
meeting house, many of them living in tents at home, till a place
was provided in which they could assemble for religious service. A
number of log cabins soon rose in the neighborhood, each with a
patch of ground in which Indian corn was planted. The Irish
emigrants were ignorant of the manner of cultivating this grain ; but
the first settlers, or " country-borns " were ready to offer assistance
and took pains to instruct them in its culture. The wants of small
families were supplied with small crops, for corn was only then used
for making bread, the woods affording abundant supplies of grass
cane and wild pea vines to serve their horses and cattle for provender
the whole year round. The streams abounded in shad and various
other fish in their season, and the trusty rifle that hung upon the
rack over the door, was never brought back without having performed
its duty in slaying the deer, or whatever small game might be sought
in the forest. Often have the old men who lived in that day spoken
of the abundance that prevailed ; a good hunter, when he chose,
could make five dollars a day in deer skins and hams, while, if
generous, he might give away the remainder of the venison to the
poor. The hams and skins were sent to Charleston and exchanged
for powder, lead, and other necessary articles. The wealth of these
primitive Covenanters consisted in stock, their labors in tilling the
earth, felling the woods and fencing their fields, while they were
disturbed by none of the wants or cares created by a more advanced
state of civilization. Such was the condition of the Covenanters, who
had left their native Ireland, for the religious liberty found in the
wilds of America. During seven years after their settlement in the
woods, they enjoyed a life in which nothing of earthly comfort was

382 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

wanting. Year after year the patch enlarged, the field becoming to
-the respectable dimensions of ten acres, and then a good clearing for
a farm. Every Sabbath morning the parents, in their " Sunday
clothes," with their neatly dressed and well-behaved little ones, might
be seen at the log meeting-house ; their pocket Bibles containing the
old Psalms in their hands, and, turning over the leaves, they would
follow the preacher in all the passages of Scripture cited by him, as
he commented upon the verses. Their simple, trustful piety caused
ihe wilderness to rejoice.. But this happiness could not be lasting.
The rumour of war which had gone over the land, was heard even in
this remote section, and these refugees who had found peace could
not but sympathize with their oppressed brethren. Some, it is true,
from the vicinity, had been out in what was called " the Snow Cam-
paign," an expedition undertaken towards the close of 1775 against
the fierce Cherokee Indians and certain loyalists in the upper regions ;
and some had been present at the attack on Sullivan's Island in 1776,
and brought a report to those remaining at home. The desolation
that raged in the North ere long took its way Southward, and the
families which were unmolested, and had enjoyed the pure ordinances
of the gospel, were now disturbed. This immunity was of short
duration. John McClure, of Fishing Creek, came home and brought
the intelligence of the surrender of Charleston, and his own defeat at
Monk's Corner. Still worse news came from across the river — of the
inhuman massacre of Buford's command by Tarleton's corps at Wax-
haws. This event gave a more sanguinary character to the war.
Directly after this appalling announcement, spread the rumour that a
strong party of British was posted at Rocky Mount, that the people
of Wateree were flocking to take protection as loyal subjects, and that
the conquerers were sending forces in every direction to reduce the
Province to subjection. Such was the aspect of affairs up to a certain
Sabbath in June, 1780. On the morning of this memorable Sabbath,
ihe different paths leading up to the log meeting house were unusu-
ally crowded. The old country folk were dressed with their usual
neatness, especially the women, whose braw garments, brought from
Ireland, were carefully preserved, not merely from thrift, but as a
memorial of the green isle of their birth. Their dresses of silk, chintz,
or Irish calico — fitted each wearer with marvelous neatness, and the
collars or ruffles of linen, white as snow, and the high-heeled shoes.
They wore fur hats with narrow rims and large feathers ; their hair

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 383

neatly braided, hanging over the shoulders or fastened by the black
ribbon band around their heads, comprised their holiday attire. It
was always a mystery to the dames, who had spent their lives or
many years in the country, how the gowns of the late comers could
be made to fit so admirably ; their own, in spite of every effort,
showing a sad deficiency in this respect. The men, on their part,
appeared not less adorned in their coats of fine broadcloth, with their
breeches, large knee buckles of pure silver, and hose of various colors.
They wore shoes fastened with a large strap secured with a buckle,
or white topped boots, leaving exposed three or four inches of the
hose from the knee downward. It must be acknowledged that these
people, so strict in their religious principles, were somewhat remarkable
in their fondness for dress. They considered it highly irreverent to ap-
pear at church not clad in their best clothes, and though when engaged
in labor during the week, they conformed to the customs of their neigh-
bors, wearing the coarse homespun of their own manufacture, and on the
Sabbath it was astonishing to see how much of decent pride there was in
the exhibition of the fine clothes brought from beyond the seas. As the
years rolled on many of the dresses and coats began to show marks of
decay; but careful repairing preserved the hoarded garments, linked
with such endeared associations, and only a few, who had married with
the "country-born," had made any alteration in them. The peculiarity
of dress gave the congregation, assembled for worship in that rude
sanctuary, a strange and motely appearance — European finery being
contrasted with the homespun gowns, hunting shirts and moccasins of
the country people. It was always insisted upon as a point of duty by
Covenanters, that children should be brought to church with parents.'
The little ones sat between the elders, that they might be kept quiet
during Divine service, and also to be ready at the appointed hour to
say the Catechism. The strict deportment and piety of this people had
already done much to change the customs formerly prevalent. Men
and women who used to hunt or fish upon the Sabbath day, now
went regularly to meeting, and some notorious ones whose misconduct
had been a nuisance to the community, now left the neighborhood.
The Stroudes, Kitchens and Morrisses, formerly regarded as the Phil-
istines of the land, were regular in their attendance upon Divine service.
Upon this particular Sabbath, the whole neighborhood seemed to have
turned out, and every face wore an expression of anxiety. Groups of
men might be seen gathered together under shade trees in every

384 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

direction, talking in loud and earnest tones, some laying down plans for
the assent of their friends; some pale with alarm and listened to others
telling the news; and some, transported with indignation, stamped the
ground and gesticulated vehemently as they spoke. Everywhere the
women mingled with the different groups, and appeared to bear an
active part in what was going on. At eleven o'clock, precisely, the
venerable form of William Martin, the preacher, came in sight. He
was about sixty years of age, and had a high reputation for learning
and eloquence. He was a large and powerful man, with a voice that
might have been heard at the distance of half a mile. As he walked
from the place where he hitched his horse, towards the stand (it being
customary when the congregation was too large to be accommodated
in the meeting-house, to have the service in the open air), the loud
and angry words of the speakers must have reached his ears. The
voices ceased as he approached, and the congregation was soon seated
in silence upon the logs surrounding the stand. When he arose to
speak every eye was fixed upon him. Those who had been most noisy
expected a reproof for their desecration of the Sabbath, for their
faithful pastor was never known to fail of rebuking those whose deport-
ment was unsuited to thfe solemnity of the day. But at this time he
also seemed absorbed with the great subject that agitated every bosom.
"My hearers," he said, in his broad, distinct Irish dialect, "talk and
angry words will do no good. We must fight! As your pastor, in
preparing a discourse suited to this time of trial, I have sought for all
light; I have examined the Scriptures and other helps in ancient and
modern history, and have especially considered the controversy between
the United Colonies and the mother country. Sorely have our
countrymen been dealt with, till forced to their declaration of indepen-
dence. Our forefathers in Scotland made a similar one, and maintained
that declaration with their lives. It is now our turn, brethren, to
maintain this at all hazards." After the prayer, and singing of the
Psalms, he calmly opened his discourse. He cited many passages of
Scripture to show that a people may lawfully resist wicked rulers;,
pointed to historical examples of princes trampling upon the rights of
the people; painted in vivid colors the rise and progress of the Refor-
mation in Scotland; and finally applied the subject by fairly stating
the merits of the revolutionary controversy. Giving a brief sketch of
the events of the war, from the first shedding of blood at Lexington,,
and, warming with the subject as he proceeded, his address became':

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 385

eloquent with the fiery energy of a Demosthenes. In a voice like
thunder, frequently striking with his clenched first the clapboard pulpit,
he appealed to the excited concourse, exhorting them to fight valiantly
in defence of their liberties. As he dwelt upon the recent horrid
tragedy — the butchery of Buford's men, cut down by the British
dragoons while crying for mercy — his indignation reached its height.
Stretching out his hand toward Waxhaws — " Go see," he cried, " the
tender mercies of Great Britain 1 In that church you may find men,
though still alive, hacked out of the very semblance of humanity; some
■deprived of their arms, some with one arm or leg, some with
both legs cut oflf, and others with mutilated trunks. Is not this cruelty
.a parallel to the history of our Scottish forefathers, driven from their
•conventicles, and hunted as beasts of the forest ? Behold the godly
youth, James Nesbit, chased for days by the British for the crime of
being seen on his knees upon the Sabbath morning, etc!" To this
stirring sermon the whole assembly responded. Hands were clenched
and teeth set in the intensity of feeling; every uplifted face expressed
the same determination, and even the women were filled with the
•spirit that threatened vengeance upon the invaders. During the interval
of Divine worship, they went about professing their resolution to do
their part in the approaching contest; to plough the fields, and gather
the crops in the absence of the men, aye, to fight themselves rather
than submit. In the afternoon the subject was resumed and discussed
■with renewed energy, while the appeals of the preacher were answered
by even more energetic demonstrations of feeling. When the worship
was concluded, and the congregation separated to return homeward,
the manly form of Captain Ben Land was seen walking among the
people, shaking hands with every neighbor, and whispering in his ear
the summons to the next day's work. As the minister quitted the
■stand, William Stroud stepped up to him. This man, with his sons,
was noted for strength and bravery. They were so tall in stature,
that like Saul, they overlooked the rest of the congregation. "He
doubted not," he said, "that Mr. Martin had heard of his 'whipping
the pets.'" "I rather think," he continued, "some people will be a
little on their guard how they go to Rocky Mount for 'tection papers!
Yesterday I was down at old deaf Lot's still house, and who do
you think was there ? John and Dick Featherston. John said he had
been to Rocky Mount to see the fine fellows, and they were so good
to him as to give him 'tection. " Do, John, tell me what that is," I

386 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

asked. He said "it was a paper, and whoever had one was safe; not a
horse, cow or hog would the British take without paying two prices for
it. So John, says I, I know now who told the British about James
Stinson's large stock of cows which they drove off yesterday — knocking
down Mrs. Stinson for putting up old brindle in the horse stable, so as
to keep one cow to give milk for th« children ! Now, John, as you
have British 'tection, I will give you Whig "tection." "With that I
knocked him down. Dick came running up, and I just give him a kick
and doubled him up. John got up and ran, and Dick begged like a
whipped boy. I told him he might carry the news that 'tection paper-
men should be whipped, and have their cows taken from them to pay
James Stinson for his. I think this is what you call the law of Moses.
And as for these Britishers, if I don't make old Nelly take in their ears,
and be dad to them !" " Excuse me for swearing this time, if you please.
Now, Mr. Martin, here is old Bill — that is two; then here is young
Will, Tom, Jack, Hamp, Erby, Ransom and Hardy." The manner in
which this characteristic speech was delivered may be imagined. Mr.
Martin showed his acceptance of the proffered help by taking William's
hand and introducing him to Captain Land. As they passed away from
the stand, and on their way home from the meeting, one of the sturdy
Covenanters, William Anderson, was unusually silent, as if some weighty
matter engaged his thoughts. His wife spoke first, after reflecting.
"I think, William, little Lizzie and I can finish the crop, and gather
it in if need be, as well as take care of the stock." "I am glad of
that, Nancy," was the reply. "I was silent, for I did na ken how to
let you know it, but to-morrow morning I leave home. The way is
now clear; the Word of God approves, and it shall ne'er be said that
the Covenanters, the followers of the Reformers of Scotland, would na
lend a helpin' hand to the renewal of the Covenant in the land of
America ! Now, Nancy, Captain Land will be out before day, giving
notice that up at the cross roads hard by, he will drill the men who
are willing to fight; this was agreed upon as I left meeting." They
journeyed home and ate their dinner. As they arose from the table,
Mrs. Anderson said, "William, were you out at the Kirk in Bally-
money, upon that Sabbath when Mary Martin, our minister's first wife,
lay a corpse in his house ? No one thought he could attend to
preaching in his sore distress; but precisely at the striking of the
hour, he was seen walking down the long aisle to the pulpit. I never
shall forget the sermon ! There was not a dry eye in the whole

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 387

congregation; old men and women fairly cried out. I thought of
that to-day when, after the sermon, old Stroud went up to him
as if he had been one of the elders. Did you see the man of
God clap Stroud on the shoulder ? Our minister is a wonderful
man; he can persuade people to almost anything." Mr. Anderson-
looked up quietly and asked, " Did he persuade you to marry him,.
Nancy, when he went to your father's a courting ?" "Na, indeed,.
William, I could na think of an old man when I had you
fairly in my net. But I did a good turn in letting him know that
Jenny Cheny was setting her cap for him, and sure enough he took
my advice and they married." The Sabbath evening wore away amid
the accustomed religious services, but the conversation frequently
turned upon the war. Early upon Monday morning, the plough was
left standing in the furrow, and the best horse was bridled and saddled
and left standing at the door. Mrs. Anderson had been up since a
little after midnight, making hoe cakes upon the hoe, and corn dodger
in the oven, and while the cooking of meats was going on, she was
busily plying the needle sewing up sacks and bags to hold provisions
for man and horse upon a long journey. As soon as he had taken
his breakfast, William bade his wife farewell, mounted and rode off.
The effect of Mr. Martin's eloquence was speedily apparent. At an
early hour upon Monday morning, many of the conscientious Cove-
nanters were seen drilling on the muster-ground seven miles from
Rocky Mount, under the brave Captain Ben Land, while two miles
above this, at the shop of a negro blacksmith, half a dozen more were
getting their horses shod. Those at the muster-ground were charged
upon by a party of British dragoons, having no previous notice of
their approach, and were dispersed. The man who carried to the
enemy the tidings of Mr. Martin's sermon and the meeting of the Cove-
nanters to drill, did not die in his bed. Their Captain being overtaken
and surrounded by the dragoons, who attacked him with their broad
swords, defended himself with his sword to the last, and wounded
severely several of his enemies before he fell. The party at the black-
smith shop was also surprised, and one man killed. The dragoons then
crossed Rocky Creek, and soon found their way to the rude stone hut
which was the dwelling of Mr. Martin. They found the old divine in
his study preparing a sermon, which was to be a second blast, and
made him their prisoner, and carried him like a felon to Rocky Mount.
There he and Thomas Walker were bound to the floor in one of the
log huts. The enemy knew well what reason they had to dread the
effect of Martin's stirring eloquence.

.388 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

This colony expected to settle down close together,
but the situation necessitated them to select lands at
a distance from one another. Among those who
came with Mr. Martin in this first colony were
Andrew and James Stevenson (Stinson) ; William And-
erson and his wife Nancy ; Alexander Brady and his
wife Elizabeth ; the several families of the Linns and
Kells, and others.* They took up bounty land which
entitled them to one hundred acres for each head of
the family, and fifty for each member thereof. Mr.
Martin bought a plantation one mile square of six
hundred and forty acres, upon which he built a stone
house. The first log church erected by Covenanters
was in the spring of 1774, and was situated on the
same road as the "Catholic" church, and two miles
east of it. It was burned by the Tories in 1780.
The hands and hearts of the Covenanters were in
the trying scenes of the Revolution. The men
shouldered the musket and went to the defence of the
country, while the women remained at home and
attended to the farms. Mr. Martin was their leader,
and did much for the cause of the country in arous-
ing all the inhabitants of Chester to their duty as
citizens. As a zealous Whig, and an eloquent preacher,
Mr. Martin threw all his influence on the side of the
Colonists, for which he was apprehended in June, 1780,
and imprisoned at Rocky Mount and Camden by the
British. Here he was confined for over six months.
In December, 1780, and on the day of his trial
before Lord Cornwallis at Winnsboro, he stood before

* Sketch by D. G. Stinson per R. B. Elder. Guthriesville. S. C.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. • 389

Tiim erect, with his grey locks uncovered, his eyes
fixed upon his lordship, his countenance marked with
frankness and benevolence. "You are charged," said
Lord Cornwallis, "with preaching rebellion from the
pulpit. You, an old man, and a minister of the
gospel of peace, are charged with advocating rebellion
against your lawful sovereign King George the III.
What have you to say in your defence ? " Nothing
daunting, Mr. Martin replied, " I am happy to appear
before you. For many months I have been held in
chains for preaching what I believe to be the truth.
As to King George I owe him nothing but good will.
I am not unacquainted with his private character. I
was raised in Scotland ; educated in her literary and
theological schools ; settled in Ireland, where I spent
the prime of my days, and came to this country
some eight years ago. As a King, he was bound to
protect his subjects in the enjoyment of their rights.
Protection and allegiance go together, and when the
one fails, the other cannot be exacted. The Declara-
tion of Independence is but a reiteration of a princi-
ple which our Covenanted fathers have always main-
tained, and have lead this nation to adopt. I am
thankful you have given me liberty to speak, and
will abide your pleasure whatever it may be."* After
his release by Lord Cornwallis, Mr. Martin went over
to Mecklenberg, North Carolina, where he preached
for some time. It was here he baptized Isaac Grier,
the first Presbyterian minister born in Georgia and
the grandfather of William Moffat Grier, President of

* Howe's History of the Presbyterian Church in South Carolina.
24

390 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Erskine College, Due West, South Carolina. When
the news came to him that the British had evacuated
Charleston, Mr. Martin carried the word to the
neighborhood, adding the comment, "the British
have taken shipping, and may the d — 1 go with
them." In the Fairfield District there lived one
John Phillips, who was a man of wealth and talent.
During the war, however, he became a rank Tory and
was called "Tory Colonel Phillips." He betrayed the
cause of the Covenanters, and those who had often
saved his life when he cast himself upon the mercy of
the Whigs. He accompanied Tarleton to Little Rocky-
Creek, where he took Archibald McClurkin from his
bed, when he was lying at the point of death with
small-pox, and hanged him to a tree by the roadside.
This barbarous act so aroused the righteous indignation
of the Covenanters, that their military aid in behalf of
the Colonists was thereby greatly increased. Many
cold blooded deeds were attributed to this traitor
Phillips. After the war he returned to' Ireland, but was
not there safe from the vengeance he had provoked in
South Carolina. He was shot on the street in Bally-
money by one of McClurkin 's brothers, but not fatally
injured. He lived in constant fear of the avenger of
blood and died a drunkard, himself in despair, and his
family wholly destitute.* In 1781, Mr. Martin returned
to Rocky Creek and resumed his labors among the
Covenanters, preaching in the " Catholic " meeting-house.
He was dismissed for intemperate habits, in 1785, but did
not cease preaching. He frequently preached at the

*Mrs. Ellet's "Women of the Revolution."

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 39 1

house of Edward McDaniel, at Jackson's Creek, in Fair-
field District, at the house of Richard Gladney, and
across the Catawba river, at the house of William
Hicklin. A small society built him a church, two miles
east of the site of the one burnt by the Tories, and
he continued to preach there for many years. In 1804,
his stone house was burnt, and the rest of his days he
lived in a log cabin. He continued his intemperate
habits and died in 1806. In the summer of 1789, the
Rev. James Reid, of Scotland, came on a missionary
tour to America, and visited the societies in South
Carolina. He set in order the affairs of the Church as
the representative of the Scottish Presbytery, and
dispensed the sacraments. At that time he also organ-
ized the Rocky Creek congregation, and the elders were
Samuel Loughridge, Adam Edgar, John Wyatt, Thomas
Morton and James McQuiston. Soon afterwards, John
Kell, David Stormont, John Rock, Robert Hemphill,
Hugh McMillan and Archibald Coulter were added to
the session. They represented the different societies in
Chester, York and Fairfield Districts.* In 1791, the
Rev. James McGarragh was sent out by the Reformed
Presbytery of Ireland, and some members came with
him. He settled in the Beaver Dam society, a branch
of the Rocky Creek congregation. In 1792, the Rev.
William King arrived, having been sent out by the
Scottish Presbytery. After an extended tour through
the North and East, he settled on the south side of the
Beaver Dam, near the Mount Prospect church. In 1793,
Revs. McGarragh and King constituted a Committee to

* Sketch by Rev. D. S. Paris, in A'. P. &- C, 1876, p. 51.

392 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

judicially manage the affairs of the Church in America.
They restored Mr. Martin and the affairs of the Church
began to wear a regular appearance.* The membership
was large and scattered, and required all the time of
the three ministers. The majority of the Covenanters
in America were settling in the South, as the lands
were cheap and adapted to farming and grazing. Mr.
McGarragh had fallen into intemperate habits, and was
suspended by the Committee in 1795. Mr. King died
in August, 1798, and Mr. Martin was again left alone
in the exercise of the ministry. In the spring of 1798,
the Reformed Presbytery was re-organized in America,
at Philadelphia, and the Revs. James McKinney and
S. B. Wylie were sent upon a commission to South
Carolina to rectify disorders, and to banish slaveholders
from the pale of the Covenanter Church. This com-
mission was constituted at the Rocky Creek meeting
house, (widow Edgar's) January 28, 1801, by Revs.
James McKinney and S. B. Wylie, with Mr. Thomas
Donnelly, licentiate, who had been preaching here for
over a year, and elders John Kell and David Stormont.
During the sittings of this court, Thomas Donnelly
was ordained and installed pastor of the societies ; S.
B. Wylie was called as his colleague ; William Martin
was deposed for holding slaves and becoming habitually
intemperate ; James McGarragh's suspension was con-
tinued, and James Harbison, Alexander Martin, Hugh
McQuiston, John Cunningham, David Smith, John Mc-
Ninch, John Cooper, William Edgar, James Montgomery
and Robert Black were chosen ruling elders.f At this
* Historical part of Testimony, f Minutes of Reformed Presbytery.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 393

time the communion was dispensed, of which all the
Covenanters partook. Mr. Wylie declined the call, and
Mr. Donnelly entered upon the work of supplying all
the societies as best he could. In 1802, the Rev,
James McKinney was translated from Galway, New
York, and took charge of the " Brick Church " society.
He died in a few months after his settlement. Mr.
Donnelly was again left alone to minister to the
scattered societies. He bought a farm, on the north
side of the Big Rocky Creek, from Stephen Harman,
and for eleven years was the sole Covenanter minister
exercising his functions in South Carolina. In 181 3,
Mr. Donnelly received assistance in the settlement of
the Rev. John Reilly over the Little Rocky Creek
and Beaver Dam congregations. Mr. Reilly died in
1820. For two years Mr. Donnelly was again left
alone, and his congregation was divided. In June,
1822, the Rev. Campbell Madden was ordained and
installed pastor of the Richmond society, and also
preached at the tent of John Orr, and taught a school
at Glendon's Grove. At the same time, the Rev. Hugh
McMillan took charge of the Brick Church, in which
he also conducted a classical school. Dr. Madden died
in August, 1828, and Hugh McMillan emigrated to Ohio
with many of his congregation. About this time
emigration to the northern free States set in, and
during the next ten years the cause in the South
became very weak on account of the prevalence of
human slavery. Mr. Donnelly remained and preached
to the scattered societies until his death in November,
1847. He was the last Covenanter minister in the

394 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

South, and soon the cause became extinct. At one
time there were over five hundred Covenanters in South
Carolina, and they composed the congregations of Rocky
Creek, Big Rocky Creek, Little Rocky Creek, Beaver
Dam and Bethesda. Among the names, not heretofore
mentioned as members of the Church in South Carolina,
are the different families by the names of McMillan,
Cooper, McKelvy, Hemphill, Woodbourne, Montford,
Nesbit, and others, of the Brick Church ; those of
Ewin, McHenry, Erwin, Todd, Kell, Rock, Linn, Little,
McFadden, McClurkin and Simpson, of the Beaver Dam
congregation ; those of Martin, Dunn, Wright, Hood,
Sproull, Henry, Stormont, Cathcart, Robinson, McMillin
and Richmond, of the Richmond or Big Rocky Creek
Church ; those of McNinch and Crawford dwelt at the
McNinch meeting house ; those of Smith, Paris, Mc-
Donald, Coulter, Wright, Willson, Orr, Wylie, Black,
jHenkle, Hunter, Boyd, Neil and McDill at the Little
Rocky Creek congregation. Li the old Brick Church
•:graveyard lie the remains of the Revs. William King,
James McKinney, John Reilly and Thomas Donnelly.
Rev. Dr. Campbell Madden was buried at Winnsboro,
James McGarragh in Paul's graveyard, and William Martin
in a private burying ground near his humble abode. The
inscriptions upon some of the tombstones which mark
these sacred graves are here inserted, that the names
of these worthy fathers may be kept iji remembrance.
It is understood that the inscriptions on the stones
of Revs. King, McKinney, Reilly and Madden were
prepared by Mr. Donnelly.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 395

Sacred to the
Memory of the Rev'd.
William King ; who departed
this life Aug'st 24th, A. D. 1798, aged
about 50 years.
Within this humble tomb pale Death has laid
A King who mortal sceptre never swayed,
But he himself did rule by Jesus' laws ;
In grace and Holy life a pattern was.
In love to God and man he shone conspicuously,
And walked with God in deep humility.
In faithfulness and zeal for Jesus' cause
Few of his fellows to him equal was,
But zeal in him so mixed with moderation,
Made even foes him view with admiration.
Tho' deeply skilled in human learning, he
Taught truths divine with great simplicity,
That perfect God might make his saints thereby.
And through his means Christ's body edify.
The Pastor's, Husband's, Parent's care he shew'd.
While he in earthly house did make abode.
His loss by all bewail'd, tho' felt by none
So much as by this people left alone.
His clay here lies, his soul to heaven is fled ;
His people he left on God for to be fed.

Sacred to the
Memory of
The Rev. Jas. McKinney,
Who departed this life Sept. i6th,
A. D. 1802, aged about 45 years.
Death's hand, tho' cold, strikes a most certain blow
In wafting Zion's sons from toil below,
To place them in the Father's house above,
To see him in the fullness of his love.
Ecclesia wails her noble champion laid,
In this low tomb to Death his tribute's paid.
A husband kind, a tender parent he,
To friend and foes a friend he wish'd to be.

396 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Tho' few in letters, human or divine,

Or grace or nature's gifts did so much shine,

Yet, hated by unworthy world, he

By God was thought above its company ;

Amidst its threats his clay in quiet lies.

While his immortal part has reach'd the skies.

Truth's foes rejoiced to see her Hero fall.

That to their idols they may join withal.

Spare boasts, truth's foes, tho' whirling winds to heaven

Elijah bore, Elisha soon was given,

By him who in the greatest love can raise

Another champion in McKinney's place.

Sacred to the Memory of
The Revd. John Riley,
Who departed this^ife
25th August, 1820,
Aged 50 years.
This tomb contains his dust ; no more
His voice is heard where it was heard before.
His wife, his people, mourn his labors' end,
And friendly neighbors a departed friend.
His gain their loss, his life by death secure
In endless mansions, where joys are pure.
Ye mourners look to Zion's sovereign Lord,
Who can to you another guide afford.

Sacred to the Memory of
Rev. C. Madden,
Who departed this life August 12, 1828,
Aged 33 years.
Insatiate death ! thou sparest none ;
To thy vast kingdom all must come.
Didst thou regard the widow's tears,
The orphans' helpless state and years ;
Didst thou respect a lettered mind,
Formed to benefit mankind ;
Didst thou regard a temper meek.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 397

By grace refined his God to seek ;

Didst thou regard Mount Sion's peace,

Her cries to God for gospel grace ; —

Our Madden had with us remained,

And peace and joy to us proclaimed.

What hast thou done ? thou wast his friend ;

Him to his Father's house didst send,

Where he will sing to endless days

The triumph and the Saviour's praise.

His family, his flock, his friend.

To heavenly grace he did commend.

In the Chief Shepherd's hand they're safe

As long as they do live by faith.

In Memory of

Rev. Thomas Donnelly,

Who departed this life

The 28th November, 1847,

In the 76th year of his age.

And the 46th of his ministry.

He was a native of Ireland,

And for many years

Pastor of the Reformed Presbyterian Church

In this vicinity.

"For him to live was Christ —

To die, gain."

The descendants of the South Carolina Covenanters-
are now generally found in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois,,
whither they migrated, and are in connection with
both branches of the Church. The few who lived in
the South after the death of the Rev. Thomas
Donnelly, went into the Associate Reformed and Pres-
byterian Churches. To Covenanters, South Carolina is
sacred ground ; and within her borders are the

398 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

sepulchres of many worthy fathers. Chester District
and Rocky Creek, where many a patriotic Covenanter
fought for the preservation of his home and country,
and maintained a faithful testimony for the rights of
King Jesus, are places fraught with both tender and
sad associations. Those Covenanter fathers either
voluntarily forsook comforts beyond the ocean or were
compelled to " flee to the land of the free, and the
home of the brave " for their civil and religious
liberty, and attained it at any cost. They maintained
the purity of the Church, and left the comforts of the
South on account of the evil influence of slavery.
Rather than give up their principles they gave up
their homes ; and while not a single Covenanter is
found in that country to-day, "they being dead" yet
speak from the scores of flourishing congregations of
the North-West where their works have followed them,
and where their children rise up and call them
blessed.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 399

SUMMARY OF CONGREGATIONS.

Adamsville : Jainestoivn, Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, November 14,
1873. Disorganized, October 13, 1874,

AiNSWORTH : Ainsworth, Washington County, loiva.
Organized by Iowa Presbytery, December 17, 1867.
Disorganized, October 7, 1873.

Albany : Albany, Neiv York. Organized by Northern
Presbytery, June 6, 181 5. James Christie, June 12,
1822, to May 17, 1830. J. R. Willson, September 17,
1830, to May 19, 1833. David Scott, June 7, 1836,
to May 8, 1842. Disorganized, May 24, 1849.

Allegheny : Allegheny City, Pennsylvania. Organized
as Pittsburgh and Allegheny by Pittsburgh Presbytery,
September 9, 1833, afterwards Allegheny and Pittsburgh,
and since October 17, 1865, is Allegheny. Thomas
Sproull, May 12, 1834, to October 13, 1868. D. B.
Willson, . November 29, 1870, to October 13, 1875.
J. R. W. Sloane, June 6, 1877, to May 31, 1884.
J. R. J. Milligan since October 15, 1885.

Ballibay : Caniptozvn, Bradford Co2mty, Pennsylvania.
■Organized by Southern Presbytery as Wyalusing,
December 16, 1832. Disorganized, May 24, 1837.
Re-organized by New York Presbytery as Ballibay,
August 28, 1875. Disorganized, June 5, 1886.

400 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Baltimore: Baltimore, Maryland. Society formed in
1797. S. B. Wylie, 1803, to 1806. Organized by
Middle Presbytery, December 15, 18 18. John Gibson,
December 15, 1818, to August 7, 1833. W. L.
Roberts, January 15, 1835, to October 9, 1837. C. B.
McKee, December 2, 1846, to December 4, 1852.
John Crawford, November 15, 1853, to September 3,
1856. W. W. McMillan, December 26, 1859, to May

5, 1863. W. P. Johnston, AugUst 4, 1864, to July
13, 1873. John Lynd, December 4, 1873, to November

6, 1877. A. D. Crowe, October 10, 1878, to August
12, 1884. W. M. Glasgow since November 26, 1885.-

BarnesvillE: Barnesville, Kings Comity, Nezv Bruns-
wick. Organized by the New Brunswick and Nova
Scotia Presbytery in 1846. J. R. Lawson, 1846, to-
October 17, 1856. J. R. Lawson, October 24, 1857,
to April 12, 1882. Thomas Patton since May 26, 1887.

Barnet : West Barnet, Caledonia County. Vermont.
Organized by New York Presbytery, July 9, 1872^
D. C. Paris since June 25, 1873.

Bear RIjn and Mahoning : Marchand, Indiana County,.
Pennsylvania. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery,,
October 15, 1870. J. F. Crozier since November 18,
1874.

Beaver Dam : Chester, Chester County, South Carolina.
Organized by Scottish Committee in 1792. William
King, 1793, to August 24. 1798. Thomas Donnelly,,
supply. John Reilly, October 8, 18 13, to August 27,
1820. Campbell Madden, June 18, 1822, to August
12, 1828. Disorganized in 1833.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 4OI

Beaver Falls : Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. Organized
by Pittsburgh Presbytery, November 10, 1874. R. J.
George since June 15, 1875,

Beech Woods : Morning Sun, Preble County, Ohio.
Organized by Middle Committee in 1805, and supplied.
John Kell, April 3, 18 16, to October 6, 18 19. Gavin
McMillan, May 7, 1823, to October 7, 1836. Josiah
Dodds, October 6, 1847, to October 10, 1865, when
attached to Garrison.

Belle Centre : Belle Centre, Logan County, Ohio.
'Organized by Lakes Presbytery, April 10, 1877. John
Lynd, January 5, 1879, to April 14, 1885. J. J. Huston
since April 30, 1886.

Bellefontaine : Bellefontaine, Logan Comity, Ohio.
■Organized by Lakes Presbytery, October 11, 1876.
F. M. Foster, May 13, 1880, to August 23, 1887.
J. J. Huston, supply.

Bethel: Sparta, Randolph County, Lllinois. Organized
by Western Presbytery, June 19, 1821. Samuel Wylie,
June 19, 1821, to August 7, 1833. Hugh Stevenson,
August 16, 1840, to May 15, 1846. James MilHgan,
October 14, 1848, to May 24, 1855. D. S. Faris
since October 7, 1857.

Bethesda: Chester, Chester County, South Carolina.
Organized by Southern Presbytery, October 10, 18 17.
Thomas Donnelly, October 10, 18 17, to November i,
1847. Disorganized, 1848.

Beulah: Beulah, Webster County, Nebraska. Organized
by Kansas Presbytery, September 8, 1881. W. S.
Fulton since March 27, 1885.

402 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Big RoCKV Creek : Cluster, CJiester County, South
Carolina. Organized by Scottish Committee in 1792.
William King, 1792, to August 24, 1798. Thomas
Donnelly, March 3, 1801, to April 10, 18 16. Dis-
organized in 1 81 7.

Big Spring : Neiwille, Cumberland County, Penn-
sylvania. Society formed in 1753. John Cuthbertson,
1753, to 1774. Matthew Linn, March 10, 1774, to
November i, 1782, when disorganized.

Bloomington : Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana.
Organized by Western Presbytery, October 10, 1821.
James Paris, November 22, 1827, to May 20, 1855.
D. J. Shaw since May 22, 1856.

Boston, First : Boston, JSIassacJiusetts. Organized by
New York Presbytery, July 12, 1854. J. R. Lawson,
November 20, 1856, to October 22, 1857. William.
Graham since July 12, i860.

Boston, Second : Boston, Massachusetts. Organized
by New York Presbytery, November 21, 1871. David
McFall since July 11, 1873.

BOVINA : Bovina Centre, Delaware County, Neiv York.
Organized by Northern Presbytery in 18 14. M. B.
Williams, April 15, 1820, to October 17, 1823. James
Douglas, April 15, 1825, to March 15, 1857. J. T.
Pollock, July II, 1 86 1, to March 10, 1864. Joshua
Kennedy, January 11, 1865, to May 20, 1885. O. B.
Milligan since June 22, 1887.

Broad Albin : Broad Albin, Fulton County, New York.
Organized by Northern Presbytery, May 10, 181 8. S.
M. Willson, October 14, 1821, to May 16, 1827. J.
N. McLeod, December 29, 1829, to June 19, 1832.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA.. 403'

A. S. McMaster, April 4, 1833, to August 7, 1833.
Disorganized, October 10, 1838.

Brookland: Ingleside, Westmoreland Coi'mty, Penn-
sylvania. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, May 9,
1822. Jonathan Gill, October 23, 1823, to August 7,
1833. Hugh Walkinshaw, April 15, 1835, to April 19,
1843. Oliver Wylie, June 24. 1846, to October 14,
1851. Robert Reed, June 21, 1854, to April ii,
1882. Attached to Parnassus under J. C. McFeeters
since November 16, 1886.

Brooklyn: Brooklyn, New York. Organized by New
York Presbytery, June 15, 1857. J. M. Dickson,
November 18, 1857, to May 20, 1862. J. H. Boggs,
December 14, 1864, to November 29, 1880. S. J.
Crowe, December 7, 1881, to October 28, 1884. J.
F. Carson since May 20, 1885.

Brownsville: Jolly, Monroe County, Ohio. Organized
by Pittsburgh Presbytery, July 12, 1854. Oliver Wylie
supply, July 12, 1854, to October 24, 1856. J. A. Thomp-
son, August 31, 1859, to June 10, 1865. Armour
McFarland, supply. S. R. McClurkin, September 13,
1876, to October 17, 1877.

Brush Creek : Locust Grove, Adams County, Ohio.
Organized by Middle Presbytery as Chillicothe, May
8, 18 1 2. Robert Wallace, October 12, 1 814, to October
6, 1820. C. B. McKee, August 7, 1821, to September
10, 1822. James Blackwood, April 12, 1827, to April 9,
1829. David Steele, June 6, 1831, to September 18, 1840.
Robert Hutcheson, September 29, 1842, to May 21,
1856. Disorganized, May 21, 1856. Re-organized by

404 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Lakes Presbytery, November i6, 1881. William Mc-
Kinney, R. J. Sharpe, T. C. Sproull, and others, supplies.
Buffalo : Buffalo, New York. Organized by Western
Presbytery, November 17, 1838. Disorganized, May
26, 1854.

BURDETT : Burdett, Pawnee County, Kansas. Organ-
ized by Kansas Presbytery, July 13, 1887.

Carleton Place : Carleton Place, Ontario, Canada.
Organized by Northern Presbytery, September 9, 1830,
as a part of Ramsey. Distinct congregation, August
29, 1837. Mission Station.

Carlisle : Carlisle, Cwjiberland County, Pennsylvania.
Organized in 1751, John Cuthbertson 1751, to 1774.
Matthew Linn, March 10, 1774, to November i, 1782,
when disorganized.

Cedar Lake : Ray, Steuben County, Indiana. Organ-
ized by Lakes Presbytery, April 19, 1841. John
French, September 23, 1850, to October 3, 1880.
R. C. Wylie since October 31, 1884.

Cedarville : Cedarville, Green County, Ohio. Organ-
ized by Middle Presbytery as Massie's Creek, June 19,
1 8 10. John Kell, supply. Jonathan Gill, May 14,
1816, to April 6, 1823. Gavin McMillan, supply.
Hugh McMillan, September 7, 1829, to August 7,
1833. Disorganized, August 18, 1841. Re-organized
as Cedarville by Lakes Presbytery, June i, 1850. H. H.
George, June 23, 1858, to August 4, 1866. Samuel
Sterrett, May 16, 1868, to October 20, 1878. P. P.
Boyd, May 22, 1872, to July 20, 1871. T. C. Sproull
since June 10, 1881.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 405

Central Allegheny : Allegheny City, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October 24, 1870.
J. W. Sproull since April 24, 1871.

Centreville : Centfeville, Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, September 18,
1879. S. J. Crowe, September 18, 1879, to April 12,
1 88 1. J. R. Wylie, July 3, 1882, to November 8,
1887.

Church Hill : Coultersville, Randolph County, Illinois.
Organized by Illinois Presbytery, October 10, 1854.
W. F. George, March 5, i860, to May 17, 1871.
J. M. Paris, June 19, 1873, to May 30, 1884. John
Teaz since July 8, 1885.

Cincinnati : Cincinnati, Ohio. Organized by Western
Presbytery, October 16, 1816. Archibald Johnston,
supply. Samuel Robinson, October 10, 1818, to August
20, 1821. C. B. McKee, November 18, 1822, to October
17, 1 83 1. Disorganized, August 7, 1833. Re-organized
\>Y Lakes Presbytery, August 22, 1844. J. R. Willson,
supply. Disorganized, October 6, 1852, Re-organized,
February 24, 1853. H. H. George, June 23, 1858, to
August 18, 1872. R. M. Sommerville, supply, one
year. J. M. Foster, December 29, 1877, to April 14,
1886.

Clarinda : Clarinda, Page County, Iowa. Organized
by Illinois Presbytery, December 17, 1855. Joseph
McCracken, July 6, 1857, to October 16, 1858. David
McKee since September 20, 1862.

Clarksburgh : Clarksburgh, Indiana County, Penn-
sylvania. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October
8, 1867. J. A. Black, November 18, 1868, to April

*406 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

II, 1882. J. J. McClurkin, stated supply, since May

16, 1884.

COLDENHAM : Coldettkam, Orange County, Neiv York.
Society formed by John Cuthbertson in 1753. Organized
by the Reformed Presbytery, as Wallkill, August 10,
1798. Alexander McLeod, July 6, 1801, to September
8, 1803. James Milligan, June 10, 1812, to April 17,
18 1 7. J. R. Willson, August 10, 18 17, to September

17, 1830. J. R. Willson, November 21, 1833, to June
26, 1840. J. W. Shaw, May 29, 1844, to October 26,
1881. R. H..McCready, March 6, 1884, to May 22, 1888.

CONOCOCHEAGUE : Fayetteville, Franklin County, Penn-
sylvania. Society formed in 175 1, by John Cuthbertson.
Matthew Linn, March 10, 1774, to November i, 1782.
Organized by Middle Committee, June 16, 1802.
Robert Lusk, August 12, 1816, to October 15, 1823.
S. W. Crawford, August 26, 18^4, to May lO, 183 1.
Thomas Hanna, December 8, 1842, to October 29, 1844.
Joshua Kennedy, November 5, 1845, to May i, i860.

CORNWALLIS : Somerset, Kings County, Nova Scotia.
Organized by New Brunswick and Nova Scotia Presby-
tery, September 13, 1843. William Sommerville, 1835,
to September 28, 1878. Thomas McFall since August
25, 1881.

Craftsbury : East Craftslmry, Orleans County, Ver-
mont. Organized by Northern Presbytery, September
14, 1816. James Milligan, September 26, 1817, to
August 6, 1829. S. M. Willson, May 19, 1833, to May
10, 1845. R. Z. Willson, November 17, 1846, to
December 18, 1855. J- M. Armour, September 23, 1857,
to October 31, 1865. A. W. Johnston, August 5,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 407

1868, to October 31, 187 1. J. C. Taylor since December

17, 1873.

Davenport : Davenport, Iowa. Organized by Iowa
Presbytery, September 14, 1864. Disorganized, May 26,
1869.

Detroit and Novi : Detroit, Michigan. Organized
by Lakes Presbytery, April 16, 1854. Boyd Mc-
Cullough, September 19, 1855, to May 14, 1871. Dis-
organized, May 14, 1 87 1. Mission Station until May
27, 1880.

DuanESBURGH : Duanesbtirgh, Schenectady, County, New
York. Organized under Reformed Presbytery of Ireland
in 1794. James McKinney, May, 1798, to April 4,
1802. Gilbert McMaster, August 8, 1808, to August 7,
1833. Disorganized, October, 1836.

East End, Pittsburgh : Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, November 24, 1887.

ECKLEY : BeulaJi, Webster Cotinty, Nebraska. Organ-
ized by Kansas Presbytery, November 13, 1878. W.
S. Fulton since March 10, 1885.

Elkhorn : Oakdale, Washington County, Illinois.
Organized by Western Presbytery, July 30, 1834.
Samuel McKinney, April 15, 1835, to May 24, 1840.
William Sloane, September 13, 1840, to May 9, 1858.
A. C. Todd, July i, 1859, to May 17, 1871. D. G.
Thompson since October 9, 1872.

Elliota : Canton, Fillmore County, Minitesota. Organ-
ized by Iowa Presbytery, November 5, 1868. J. S.
Buck, 1867, to October 13, 1870. J. W. Dill, April
26, 1878, to May 25, 1 88 1. Robert Clyde since
February 12, 1886.

408 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

EsKRiDGE : Eskridge, Wabaunsee County, Kansas.
Organized by Kansas Presbytery, April 15, 1884. N.
M. Johnston since August 4, 1886.

Evans : Evans, Weld County, Colorado. Organized
by Illinois Presbytery, August 10, 187 1. A. C. Todd
since August 21, 1874.

Fairgrove : Fairgrove, Tuscola County, Michigan.
Organized by Lakes Presbytery, December 7, 1878.
J. Ralston Wylie, November i, 1879, to October 12,
1887.

Gal WAY : West Galway, Fulton County, New York.
Organized as a part of Duanesburgh, in 1794. James
McKinney, May, 1798, to April 4, 1802. Gilbert Mc-
Master, August 8, 1808, to May 10, 18 18. Organized
as Galway distinct. May 10, 18 18. S. M. Willson,
October 14, 182 1, to May 16, 1827. J. N. McLeod,
December 29, 1829, to June 19, 1832. A. S. McMaster,
April 4, 1833, to August 7, 1833, when disorganized.
Re-organized by Western Presbytery, November 9, 1835.
Disorganized, April, 1842.

Garrison : Glenwood, Fayette County, Indiana. Organ-
ized by Middle Committee in 1805. John Kell, April
3, 1816, to October 6, 18 19. Gavin McMillan, May 7.
1823, to October 7, 1836. Josiah Dodds, October 6
1847, to October 10, 1865. T. P. Robb, May 16, 1871
to April 12, 1874. J. J. McClurkin, August 14, 1880
to March 13, 1884. Disorganized, September 9, 1884

Greenfield : Greenfield, Harrison Coimty, Ohio. Organ-
ized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October 16, 1822.
William Sloane, November 16, 1829, to October 23,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 409

1838. James Love, June '29, 1839, to May 11, 1847.
Disorganized, May 24, 1849.

Greensburgh : Greensbm-gh, Westmoreland Coimty,
Pennsylvania. Organized by Middle Presbytery in 181 3,
John Cannon, September 16, 1816, to February 2, 1836.
James Milligan, November 23, 1839, to October 16, 1841.
S. O. Wylie, May 17, 1843, to November 18, 1844.
R. B. Cannon, May 5, 1847, to April 4, 1854. A. M.
Milligan, May 6, 1856, to April 10, 1866. Attached to
New Alexandria, October 8, 1867.

Grove Hill : Grove Hill, Bremer County, Iowa.
Organized by Illinois Presbytery, October 2, 1861.
Robert Hutcheson, April 17, 1863, to May 8, 1867.
Disorganized, May 26, 1869.

Hebron : Idana, Clay County, Kansas. Organized by
Kansas Presbytery, November 9, 1871. J. S. T. Milligan,
supply. S. M. Stevenson, October 30, 1874, to April
17, 1876. Matthew Wilkin, November 11, 1876, to July
12, 1880. J. R. Latimer since August 18, 1882.

Hephzibah : Fayetteville, Lincoln County, Tennessee.
Organized as Elk by Southern Presbytery, June 12,
18 12. Supplied by John Kell, Thomas Donnelly, Robert
McKee, and others. Ebenezer Cooper, 1828, to 1832.
Disorganized,' August 7, 1833.

Hickory Grove : Avery, Monroe County, Iowa. Organ-
ized by Iowa Presbytery, October 13, 1865, as Albia.
James Love, April 16, 1866, to September 14, 1881..
J. A. Thompson since September 17, 1882.

HOLMWOOD : Mankato, Jeivell County, Kansas. Organ-
ized by Kansas Presbytery, September i, 1881.

HOPKINTON : Hopkinton, Delaware County, Iowa. Organ-^

41 0 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

ized by Illinois Presbytery, April lO, 1856, as Maquo-
keta. W. L. Roberts, May 9, i860, to December 7,
1864. D. H. Coulter, April 18, 1867, to October 14,
1874. R. C. Wylie, June 15, 1875, to Ootober 3, 1882.
T. H. Acheson since September 23, 1886.

HORTON : Grand Pre, Hants County, Nova Scotia.
Organized by New Brunswick and Nova Scotia Pres-
bytery, May, 1835. William Sommerville, May 16, 1835,
to September 28, 1878. Thomas McFall, August 25,
188 1, to June 5, 1886, when disorganized.

HOULTON : Hoiilton, Aroostook County, Maine. Organ-
ized by New Brunswick and Nova Scotia Presbytery,
May 16, 1859. Supplied occasionally. J. A. F. Bovard,
April 12, 1880, to March 10, 1884.

Indianapolis : Indianapolis, Indiana. Organized by
Lakes Presbytery, May lo, 1867. John Crozier stated
supply. Disorganized, May 25, 1870.

Jewell : Rubens, Jewell County, Kansas. Organized
hy Kansas Presbytery, July 15, 1885.

Jonathan's Creek : White Cottage, Muskingum County,
■ Ohio. Organized by Lakes Presbytery, August 23, 1853,
as Eden and Irville. Armour McFarland, August 23,
1853, to April 12, 1876. T. C. Sproull, supply. R. B.
Cannon since September 9, 1886.

Junkin Tent : Kingston, Cumberland County, Penn-
sylvania. Society formed in 1750. John Cuthbertson,
175 1, to 1774. Matthew Linn, March 10, 1774, to
^November i, 1782. A part of Conococheague, 1802,
$0 i860.

Kortright : West Kortright, Delaivare County, New
York. Organized by Northern Presbytery in 18 14. M.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 411

B. Williams, April' 15, 1820, to August 31, 1831.
James Douglas, supply. S. M. Willson, October 22,
1845, to January 21, 1864. J. O. Bayles since January

10, 1866.

Kossuth : Kossuth^ Des Moines County, Io7va. Organ-
ized by Iowa Presbytery, September 9, 1865. Robert
Johnson, January 7, 1868, to July 27, 1875. Dis-
organized, April 30, 1879.

Lake Eliza : Le Roy, Lake County, Indiana.
Organized by Lakes Presbytery, September 6, 1852.
P.'H. Wylie, May 14, 1855, to October 9, i860. R.
M. Thompson, September 9, ' 1865, to September 13,
1 88 1. Robert Clyde, supply in 1884. Disorganized,
June I, 1887.

Lake Reno : Glenwood, Pope County, Minnesota,
Organized by Iowa Presbytery, October 29, 1869. E.
G. Elsey since July 17, 1882.

Lansingburgh : Lansingburgh, Rensselaer County,
Nezo York. Organized by Northern Presbytery, June
17, .1828. Robert McKee, December 29, 1830, to May
26, 1835. Disorganized, October 16, 1848.

LiND Grove : Mediapolis, Des Moines County, lozva.
Organized by Illinois Presbytery, September 10, 1856.

C. D. Trumbull, January 29, 1864, to April i, 1874.
'M. A. Gault, May 20, 1875, to October 4, 1877. J-
W. Dill, July 6, 1881, to September 19, 1887.

Lisbon : Flackville, St. Lawrence County, New York.
Organized as a society in 1823. Disorganized, August
7, 1833. Re-organized by Rochester Presbytery, October
5, 1840. John Middleton, February 8, 1844, to April

11, 1854. James McLachlane, July 16, 1856, to

412 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

November 19, 1864. William McFarland since May
II, 1871.

Little Beaver : New Galilee, Beaver County, Penn-
sylvania. Organized by Middle Presbytery, May, 18 14.
Robert Gibson, September 6, 18 19, to October 16,
1830. George Scott, April 19, 183 1, to August 7,
1833. James Blackwood, May 24, 1834, to October
10, 1838. J. W. Morton, November 27, 1845, to June
3, 1847. Samuel Sterrett, June 21, 1848, to May 16,
i860. N. M. Johnston, April 14, 1864, to June 3,
1886. J. R. Wylie since May 18, 1888. *

Little Rocky CreeIc : Chester, Chester County,
Sotith Carolina. Settled in 1772, by William Martin
and a colony from Ireland. William Martin, 1772, to
1789. James McGarragh, 1791, to 1795. William King,
1795, to Aijgust 24, 1798. James McKinney, May 10,
1802, to September 4, 1802. Thomas Donnelly, supply.
John Reilly, February 23, 1813, to August 27, 1820.
Campbell Madden, June 18, 1822, to August 12, 1828.
Disorganized, 1832.

LOCHIEL : Brodie, Ontario, Canada. Society formed
with Ramsey in 18 16. Organized by Rochester Presby-
tery, July 14, 1 861, as Glengary. Robert Shields,,
supply, 1865, to 1883. R. C. Allen since October 18,.
1887.

Londonderry : Londotidei-ry, Gtiemsey County, Ohio.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October 16, 1822,
Robert Wallace, supply. William Sloane, November
16, 1829, to October 23, 1838. James Love, June 27,.
1839, to October 5, 1864. J. A. Thompson, October
3, 1866, to September i, 1875. J. R. Latimer, May
19, 1880, to May 27, 1882.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 4 1 3,

Long Branch : BlancJiard, Page County, lozva.
Organized by Kansas Presbytery, April 16, 1877. M.
A. Gault, supply. M. A. Gault, October i, 1880, to
October 25, 1882. B. M. Sharp since October 13,.
1887.

Lower Chanceford : Chanceford, York County,.
Pennsylvania. Society formed in 175 1. John Cuthbert-
son, 1751, to 1782, when disorganized.

Macedon : Macedon, Mercer County, Ohio. Organized
by Lakes Presbytery, July 5, 1852. W. F. George,
Septembor 26, 1853, to April 20, 1858. P. H. Wylie,
November 14, i860, to March I, 1887. Disorganized,-
June 2, 1888.

Mansfield : Mansfield, Ohio. Organized by Ohio
Presbytery, October 11, 1878. S, A. George since
November 20, 1878.

McKeesport : McKeesport, Pennsylvania. Organized
by Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 27, 1882. J. H. Wylie,
June 30, 1885, to June 27, 1887.

Miami, First : Northwood, Logan Comity, Ohio^
Organized by Western Presbytery, October 16, 1831.
J. B. Johnston, June 10, 1834, to November 10 1858.
J. C. K. MilHgan, July i, 1853, to April 20, 1858.
J. L. McCartney, November 12, 1861, to September i,.
1875, Consolidated into United Miami, April 14, 1877.
Miami, Second : Northtvood, Logan County, Ohio.
Organized by Synod under Lakes Presbytery, August 9;
1851. William Milroy, October 12, 1854, to November
15, 1876. Consolidated into United Miami, April 14,.

1877-

MiDDLETOWN : Hooker, Butler County, Pennsylvania.

414 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, Noveniber i6, 1886,
and was known as the North Washington Branch of
Brookland congregation, since 1825.

Middle Wheeling : Roneys Point, Ohio County,
West Virginia. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery,
April 26, i860, and formerly supplied by pastors of
Miller's Run. Armour McFarland, April 4, 1866, to
April 12, 1873. S. R. McClurkin since September 13,
1876.

Miller's Run : Venice, Washington County, Pemisyl-
vania. Organized by Middle Committee, October 19,
1806, as Canonsburgh. John Black, supply. William
Gibson, October 23, 18 17, to May 26, 1826. G. T.
Ewing, October 23, ■ 1827, to May 16, 1830. John
Crozier, May 12, 1834, to October 9, 1842. William
Slater, May 24, 1843, to April 14, 1887.

Milton : Milton, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Philadelphia Presbytery, October 13, 1830.
William Wilson, August 6, 1832, to August 7, 1833,
when passed into New School body.

Moncton : Moncton, New Brunsu'ick. Organized by
New Brunswick and Nova Scotia Presbytery, September
15, 1885.

Monongahela : Elizabeth, Allegheny County, Pennsyl-
vania. Society formed in 1794. John Black, supply.
Organized by Middle Committee, October, 1806. William
Gibson, October 23, 18 17, to May 26, 1826. G. T.
Ewing, October 23, 1827, to May 16, 1830. John
Crozier, May 12, 1834, to April 12, 1865. J. W.
Sproull, April 10, 1866, to April ir, 1871. T. C.
Sproull, October 3, 1871, to May 26, 1876. W. J.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 415

Coleman, June 13, 1879, to July 5, 1881. John M.
Wylie, April 27, 1883, to April 9, 1884. Robert Reed,
supply, 1885, to 1887.

Morning Sun : Morning Sun, Louisa County, Iowa.
Organized by Iowa Presbytery, July 9, 1873. C. D.
Trumbull since April 14, 1874.

Muddy Run: McCaWs Ferry, York County, Pennsyl-
vania. Formed into a society in 1743. John Cuthbertson,
1751, to 1782.

Muskingum and Tomica : Dresden, Muskingnm County.
Ohio. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October 9
1831. John Wallace, April 14, 1833, to April 4, 1855
J. C. K. Paris, December 6, 1865, to April 13, 1871
W. S. Fulton, December 5, 1877, to April 11, 1883
John M. Wylie since January 21, 1885.

New Alexandria : New Alexandria, Westmoreland
Connty, Peilnsylvania. Organized by the Pittsburgh
Presbytery, July, 1822. John Cannon, 18 19, to February
2, 1836. James Milligan, November 23, 1839, to October
14, 1848. A. M. Milligan, November 24, 1848, to October
4, 1853. A. M. Milligan, May 6, 1856, to April 10,
1866. T. A. SprouU, June 17, 1868, to April 8, 1878.
J. L. Pinkerton, May 17, 1881, to October 9, 1883.
J. F. Carlisle, June 20, 1884, to January 26, 1888.

Newark : Neivark, New Jersey. Organized by New
York Presbytery, June 17, 1874. D. H. Coulter,
December 10, 1874, to October 27, 1875. Disorganized,
October 30, 1878.

Newburgh, First : Neivburgh, Neiv York. Society
formed, November 8, 1802. Organized by Northern
Presbytery, February 16, 1824. J. R. Johnston, Sep-

4l6 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

tember 6, 1825, to October 17, 1829. Moses Roney,.
June 8, 1830, to October 10, 1848. Samuel Carlisle,
November 15, 1849, to July 3, 1887.

Newburgh, Second : Newburgh, New York. Organ-
ized by New York Presbytery, December 13, 1854. J. R.
Thompson since December 19, 1855.

New Castle : New Castle, Pennsylvania. Organized
by Pittsburgh Presbytery, January 9, 1871. S. J.
Crowe, May 21, 1872, to April 12, 1881. J. Milligan
Wylie, June 22, 1883, to December 26, 1887. W. R. Laird
since May 10, 1888.

New Concord : New Concord, Muskingum County,.
Ohio. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, June 13,
182 1, as Salt Creek. Robert Wallace, October 9, 1823,
to July 19, 1849. H. P. McClurkin, October 15, 1850,
to October 8, 1856. H. P. McClurkin, December 2,
1858, to October 4, 1882. J. M. Paris since July 3,.
1884.

New Hartford : New Hartford, Oneida County, New-
York. Organized by Southern Presbytery, October lO,.
1837. Disorganized, May 15, 1843.

New York, First : New York City, New York.
Organized by Rev. William Gibson, December 26,.
1797. Alexander McLeod, July 6, 1801, to February
17. 1833. James Christie, November 16, 1836, to
October* 15, 1856. J. C. K. Milligan since June 1 6,
1858.

New York, Second : New York City, New York.
Organized by Northern Presbytery, June 11, 1830.
Robert Gibson, May 31, 183 1, to December 22, 1837.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 4^7

Andrew Stevenson, November 14, 1 839, to May 17,
1875. R- M. Sommerville since December 14, 1875

New York, Third : New York City, New York.
Organized by New York Presbytery, March I4, 1 848.
John Little, June 5, 1849, to April 20, 1852. J. R.
W. Sloane, May 26, 1856, to October 27, 1 868. David
'Gregg, February 23, 1870, to October 28, 1885
David Gregg, December 6, 1885, to January 25, 1887
P. M. Foster since September 7, 1887.

New York, Fourth : Neiv York City, New York.
'Organized by New York Presbytery, February 21, 1870
James Kennedy since November 13, 1870.

North Cedar : North Cedar, Jackson Cotmty, Kansas
'Organized by Kansas Presbytery, October 23, 187 1
J. S. T. Milligan since October 8, 1872.

North Salem : Sugar Tree, Guernsey County, Ohio.
Organized by Ohio Presbytery, April 2, 1879. J. R
Latimer, October 10, 1880, to May 27, 1882.

North Union : Valencia, Butler County, Pennsylvania.
'Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 11, 1870,
from Union and Pine Creek, and John Galbraith has
since continued pastor.

Oakland : Oakland, Califoiniia. Organized by Synod
under Kansas Presbytery, August 28, 1879, as a
mission congregation with N. R. Johnston in charge.
Disorganized, May 21, 1885.

OCTORARA : Octorara, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Society formed in 1740. Alexander Craighead, 1743,
to 1749. John Cuthbertson, August 11, 1751, to Nov-
ember I, 1782, when disorganized.

Oil City : South Oil City, Pejinsylvania. Organized

4l8 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

by Pittsburgh Presbytery, August 19, 1865. David
McFall, May 8, 1871, to April 8, 1873. J. A. F.
Bovard since June 11, 1884,

Oil Creek : Titusville, Crazvfoj-d County ^ Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, February 14, i860,
Daniel Reid, December 19, 1861, to March 31, 1875.
J. A. F. Bovard since June 12, 1884.

Olathe : Olathe, jfohnston County, Kansas. Organized
by Illinois Presbytery, April 16, 1865. W. W. McMillan,.
March 10, 1866, to October 14, 1885. J. H. Wylie
since October 21, 1887.

Old Bethel : Houston, Randolph Coiinty, Illinois.
Organized by Western Presbytery, October 15, 1836.
James Wallace, August 16, 1840, to May 15, 1867.
W. J. Gillespie, October 13, 1869, to August 6, 1870.
P. P. Boyd, July 20, 1874, to December 12, 1887.
Parnassus and Manchester : Parnassus, Penn-
sylvania. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, June 20,.
1870. J. M. Johnston, June 15, 1871, to January 3,,
1873. J. C. McFeeters since June 19. 1874.

Paterson : Paterson, New Jersey. Organized by
Northern Presbytery, October 10, 18 18. W. L. Roberts,,
May 19, 1824, to December 18, 1825. William Gibson,,
1826, to 1832. Disorganized, October 7, 1836.

Paxtang : Paxton, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.-
Society formed in 1 740. John Cuthbertson, August
15, 175 1, to March 10, 1774. Matthew Linn, March
10, 1774, to November i, 1782, when disorganized.
Pequea : Pequea, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Society formed in 1750. John Cuthbertson, August 14,
175 1, to November i, 1782, when disorganized.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 4x9-

Perth, First : Perth, Ontario, Canada. Organized
under Scottish Synod, April 29, 1836. James McLach-
lane, August 29, 1837, to October 8, 1855, when dis-
organized. Re-organized by Rochester Presbytery, July
14, 1 86 1. Robert Shields, supply, July 13, 1865, to
August 28, 1883.

Perth, Second : Perth, Ontario, Canada. Organized
by Rochester Presbytery, June 12, 1852. John Middle-
ton, October 19, 1854, to October 8, 1856, when dis-
organized.

Philadelphia, First : PJiiladelphia, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Rev. William Gibson, January 28, 1798-
Samuel B. Wylie, November 20, 1803, to August 7,
1833. J- M. Willson, November 27, 1834, to October,
28, 1862. T. P. Stevenson since May 5, 1863.

Philadelphia, Second : Philadelphia, Pennsylvania..
Organized by Southern Presbytery, August 10, 1842.
S. O. Wylie, December 5, 1844, to August 22, 1883.
J. K. McClurkin, October 9, 1884, to August 25, 1887.

Philadelphia, Third : Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Organized by New York Presbytery, January 16, 1851.
A. M. Milligan, December 8, 1853, to October 14,
1855. John Middleton, November 18, 1856, to May
17, 1862. R. J. Sharpe, April 6, 1866, to April 10,
1879. J. M. Crozier, May 6, 1880, to September 7,
1 88 1. R. C. Montgomery since March 27, 1883.

Philadelphia, Fourth : Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Organized by New York Presbytery, July 13, 1853.
David McKee, July 5, 1854, to August 4, 1859, when
disorganized.

420 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Pine Creek and Union : Valencia, Butler County,
Pennsylvania. Society organized in 1806, as a part of
Ohio congregation. Matthew Williams, 1807, to 1 81 5.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October 8, 181 5.
Matthew Williams, October 8, 18 15, to October 16,
1825. T. C. Guthrie, April 26, 1826, to August 7,
1833. Hugh Walkinshaw, April 15, 1835, to October
16, 1841. John Galbraith, June 29, 1843, to April II,
1870. Alexander Kilpatrick since May 17, 1876.

Pittsburgh : Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Organized
by Middle Committee, December 18, 1800, as Ohio.
John Black, December 18, 1800, to August 7, 1833, when
disorganized. Re-organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery,
October 17, 1865. A. M. Milligan, May 14, 1866, to
May 7, 1885. David McAllister since October 20, 1887.

Pleasant Ridge: Olathe, Johnston Coimty, Kansas.
Organized by Illinois Presbytery, April 16, 1865. W.
W. McMillan, March 10, 1866, to August n, 1871.
Matthew Wilkin, May 8, 1874, to July 12, 1880. R.
M. Thompson since October 12, 1881.

Poland and North Jackson : Canfield, Mahoning
County, Ohio. Organized by Middle Presbytery, May 17,
1 8 14, as Austintown, and attached to Little Beaver
until its separate existence. May 16, i860. Samuel
Sterrett, May 16, i860, to October 7, 1867. R. J.
George, May 19, 1870, to April 14, 1875. T. C.
Sproull, July 8, 1876, to April 8, 1879. Changed to
Youngstown, October 12, 1885.

Princeton : Princeton, Gibson County, Indiana.
Organized by Middle Presbytery, October 14, 18 13.
John" Kell, June 21, 1820, to August 7, 1833. Robert

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 42 1

Lusk, supply. J. J. McClurkin, June 2, 1843, to May
22, 1849. John Stott, October 13, 1851, to June 2,
1868, when disorganized. Re-organized by Illinois
Presbytery, April 21, 1869. D. C. Martin, November
7, 1872, to April 12, 1888.

PrincetOWN : Princetoivn, Schenectady County, New
York. Organized by James McKinney, in 1794, as a
part of Duanesburgh. James McKinney, May, 1798,
to April 4, 1802. Gilbert McMaster, August 8, 1808,
to August 7, 1833, when disorganized.

QuiNTER : Quinter, Gove County, Kansas. Organized
by Kansas Presbytery, July 7, 1887.

Ramsey : Almonte, Ontario, Canada. Organized by
James Milligan, September 9, 1830. Disorganized,
August 7, 1833. Re-organized by James McLachlane,
October 9, 1833. James McLachlane, October 9, 1833,
to October 8, 1856, when disorganized. Re-organized
hy Rochester Presbytery, July 14, 1861. Robert Shields,
July 13, 1865, to August 28, 1883. E. M. Coleman
since May 9, 1888.

Rehoboth : Marchand, Indiana Cotmty, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, November 16,
1847, as Warsaw and Montgomery. R. J. Dodds, June
18, 1852, to May 24, 1856. T. M. Elder, May 11,
1859, to April 10, 1866. J, F. Crozier since November
18, 1874.

Rehoboth : Wyman, Louisa County, Iowa. Organized
by Illinois Presbytery, October 19, 1854. R. B. Cannon,
December 14, 1854, to December 17, 1867. E. G.
Elsey, August 14, 1874, to April 12, 188 1. J. A. Black
since February 9, 1886.

422 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Rochester : Rochester, New York. Organized by
Southern Presbytery, July 2i, 1831. John Fisher, July
21, 1831, to April 17, 1835. C. B. McKee, May 14,
1837, to August 29, 1842. David Scott, July 11, 1844^
to July 19, 1862. R. D. Sproull, May 14, 1863, to
October 6, 1880. John Graham since June 22, 1881.

Rochester : Rochester, Kingman County, Kansas.
Organized by Kansas Presbytery, December 4, 18,86.

Rock Creek : Gettysburgh, Adams Count}', Pemisyl-
vania. Society formed in 1742, as Marsh Creek. John
Cuthbertson, 1751, to 1774. Alexander Dobbin, March
10, 1774, to November i, 1782, when disorganized.

Rocky Creek : Chester, Chester County, South Carolina.
The parent society in the South, formed about 1750.
In 1770, called "Edgar's Meeting House." William
Martin, 1772, to 1789. William King, 1792, to 1798.
Thomas Donnelly, March 3, 1801, to April 10, 1816.
Hugh McMillan, June 18, 1822, to April 6, 1829, when
disorganized.

Rocky Spring : Chamber sburgh, Franklin Coimty,
Pennsylvania. Original of Conococheague, formed in 175 1.
John Cuthbertson, August 31, 1751, to March 10, 1774.
Matthew Linn, March 10, 1774, to November i, 1782.
Organized as Conococheague, June 16, 1802,

Round Prairie : Round Prairie, Todd County, Minne-
sota. Organized by Iowa Presbytery, May 12, 1873.

RUSHSYLVANIA : Rzishsylvania, Logan County, Ohio.
Organized by Lakes Presbytery, November 17, 1853.
J. R. W. Sloane, January 13, 1855, to May 21, 1856.
P. H. Wylie, November 13, i860, to May 25, 1876.
H. H. George, May 3, 1878, to May 18, 1880. John

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 423

Lynd, August 12, 1880, to April 14, 1885. J, J. Huston,
July 30, 1886, to April 9, 1888.

Ryegate : Ryegate^ Caledonia County, Vermont. Organ-
ized by Reformed Presbytery, October, 1798. William
Gibson, July 10, 1799, to April 13, 181 5. James
Milligan, September 26, 1817, to May 17, 1839. J- M.
Beattie, June 20, 1844, to May 17, 1882. H. W. Reed,
January 19, 1883, to September 2i, 1886,

Saint John : Saint John, Neiv Brunswick. Society
formed. May, 1821. Organized by Alexander Clarke,
March, 1828. Alexander Clarke, August, 1827, to April
25, 1832. A. M. Stavely, August 16, 1841, to July 26,
1879. A. J. McFarland since August 4, 1882.

Saint Johnsbury : Saint Johnsbury, Caledonia County,
Vermont. Organized by New York Presbytery, July 29,
1879. W. R. Laird, June 15, 1880, to May i, 1888.

Saint Louis : Saint Louis, Missouri. Organized by
Illinois Presbytery, April 2, 1846. A. C. Todd, July 29,
1852, to April 12, 1857. Joseph McCracken, October 14,
1859, to September 2, 1874. J. R. Hill, September 28,
1877, to April 15, 1885. E. M. Smith since May 16,
1887.

Salem : Stanton, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania. Organ-
ized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, October 31, i860. A. J.
McFarland, February 5, 1862, to April 11, 1882. H. W.
Temple since July 14, 1887.

Sandusky : Crestline, Crawford County, Ohio. Organ-
ized by Lakes Presbytery, October 10, 1843. J. C.
Boyd, May 13, 1847, to November 6, 1867. Disorganized,
April 12, 1876.

424 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Schenectady : Schenectady, Neio York. Organized in
1794, with Duanesburgh. James McKinney, May, 1798,
to April 4, 1802. Gilbert McMaster, August 8, 1808, to
May 16, 183 1, when received separate organization. John
McMaster, January 25, 1832, to August 7, 1833, when
disorganized.

Selma : Selina, Dallas County, Alabama. Organized by
Pittsburgh Presbytery, May 21, 1875, as a mission con-
gregation. Lewis Johnston, May 21, 1875, to November
14, 1876. G. M. Elliot since December 14, 1877.

Sharon : Linton, Des Moines County, Iowa. Organized
by Illinois Presbytery, September 26, 1846. J. M. Mc-
Donald, May 17, 185 1, to June 19, 1872. T. P.
Robb since July 6, 1874.

Shenango and Neshannock : Neshannock FallSy
Lawrence County, Pennsylvania. Organized by Pittsburgh
Presbytery, October 25, 1829. A. W. Black, January
18, 1832, to August 7, 1833, when disorganized.

Slippery Rock and Portersville : Rose Point,
Lawrence Coimty, Pe^insylvattia. Society formed in 1806,
and a part of Little Beaver. Organized by Pittsburgh
Presbytery, April 12, 1834. James Blackwood, May
24, 1834, to October 8, 1851. Thomas Hanna, Novem-
ber 17, 1852, to October 29, 1861. J. C. Smith since
April 16, 1863.

SOUTHFIELD : Birmingham, Oakland Coimty, Michigan.
Organized by Ohio Presbytery, May 10, 1834. James
Neill, May 18, 1843, to October 6, 185 1. J. S. T.
Milligan, November 11, 1853, to April 11, 187 1. J. R.
Hill, May 10, 1872, to May 25, 1876. Joseph Mc-
Cracken since June 15, 1878.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 425

Springfield : Balm, Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, August 4, 1852.
J. J. McClurkin, September 8, 1854, to October 14,
1873. J. Renwick Wylie, June 29, 1877, to April 10,
1888.

Staunton : Staunton, Macoupin County, Illinois. Organ-
ized by Illinois Presbytery, July 14, 1863. John Middle-
ton, May 23, 1865, to August 9, 1870. W. F. George,
May 13, 1872, to April 14, 1880. E. M. Smith since
May 12, 1887.

Sterling : Sterling Valley, Cayuga County, Neiv York.
Organized by Northern Presbytery, November 17, 1823.
W. L. Roberts, November 16, 1826, to October 6,
1830. W. L. Roberts, October 19, 1837, to May 26,
1855. Matthew Wilkin, October 23, 1856, to October
2, 1867. S. R. Galbraith, July 7, 1870, to October i,
1871. T. J. Allen, November 11, 1875, to June i,
1887. J. C. B. French since January 12, 1888.

Sterling : Sterling, Rice Cojinty, Kansas. Organized
by Kansas Presbytery, November 5, 1877. J. M.
Armour, April i, 1877, to May 26, 1885. P. H,
Wylie since April 15, 1887.

Superior : Superior, Nuckolls County, Nebraska.
Organized by Kansas Presbytery, September i, 1881,.
R. C. Allen, December 8, 1882, to October 15, 1884.
Disorganized, May 22, 1885. Re-organized, August 27,
1885. P. P. Boyd since March 16, 1888.

Sylvania : Sylvania, Dade County, Missouri. Organ-
ized by Illinois Presbytery, August 10, 1871. Josiah
Dodds since May 9, 1878.

426 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Syracuse : Syracuse, Neiv York. Organized by-
Rochester Presbytery, October lo, 1849. John Newell,
May 7, 1851, to May 26, 1853. J. M. Johnston, May
13, 1859. to August II, 1866. J. M. Armour, June
8, 1867, to September 9, 1873. S. R. Wallace since
December 8, 1874.

Tabor : Clay Centre, Clay County, Kansas. Organized
by Kansas Presbytery, October 12, 1873. S. M.
Stevenson since October 30, 1874.

ToPSHAM : Topsham, Orange County, Vermont. Organ-
ized by Northern Presbytery, September 6, 18 18.
William Sloahe, October 14, 1820, to April 17, 1829.
N. R. Johnston, November 10, 1852, to May 16, 1865.
J. M. Paris, September i, 1869, to May 22, 1872. J.
C, K. Paris since December 2, 1874.

Toronto : Toronto, Canada. Organized by Rochester
Presbytery, May 27, 1851. Robert Johnson, November
4, 1852, to November 7, 1859. Disorganized, May 27,
j868. Re-organized, January 23, 1872. Disorganized,
May 26, 1875.

Troy : Troy, New York. Organized by Northern
Presbytery, June 17, 1828. Robert McKee, December
29, 1830, to May 26, 1835. Disorganized, April 13,
1849.

United Miami : NortJiwood, Logan County, Ohio.
Organized by Lakes Presbytery, April 14, 1877, by
consolidation of Pirst and Second Miami. George
Kennedy, May 23, 1878, to June 15, 1882. Ruther
Hargrave since May 27, 1886.

Utica : Utica, Licking County, Ohio. Organized by-
Middle Presbytery, October 12, 18 14, as Licking.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 427

Robert Wallace, October 12, 1814, to May 10, 1820.
Armour McFarland, October 5, 1837, to May 23, 1855.
J. C. Boyd, November 26, 1856, to October 4, 1882.
W. J. Coleman, April 15, 1886, to November 17,
1887.

Utica : Utica, New York. Organized by Southern
Presbytery, October 10, 1837. Disorganized, October
13. 1840.

Vernon : Waukesha, Waukesha County, Wisconsin.
Organized by Rochester Presbytery, October 18, 1848,
as Waukesha. Disorganized, November 8, 1850. Re-
organized by Illinois Presbytery, September 16, 1856,
as Vernon. Robert Johnson, November 7, 1859,
to December 17, 1867. R. B. Cannon, September 13,
1872, to May 28, 1878. Isaiah Faris since November
22, 1878.

Wahoo and Fremont : Wahoo, Saunders County^
Nebraska. Organized by Kansas Presbytery, December
19, 1 87 1. J. A. Thompson, October 18, 1877, to May
18, 1880. H. P. McClurkin since February 29, 1884.

Walnut City : Walnut City, Appanoose County, loiva.
Organized by Iowa Presbytery, March 18, 1868.
Isaiah Faris, September 21, 1870, to May 23, 1877.
Disorganized, April 9, 1884.

Walnut Ridge : Salem, Washington County, Indiana.
Organized by Western Presbytery, May 13, 1822.
Robert Lusk, October 7, 1824, to August 10, 1825.
Robert Lusk, May 9, 1835, to September 18, 1840.
J. J. McClurkin, June 2, 1843, to April 10, 1851.
Disorganized, May 28, 1862.

428 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Walton: Walton, Delaxvare County, New York. Organ-
ized by New York Presbytery, June ii, i86i. David
McAllister, December i6, 1863, to September 6, 1871.
David McAllister, June 23, 1875, to October 24, 1883.-
S. G. Shaw since July 8, 1884.

Washington: Washington, Washington County, loiua.
Organized by Iowa Presbytery, November 27, 1863.
S. M. Stevenson, February 15, 1865, to October 4,
1871. W. P. Johnston, October 10, 1873, to August
4, 1 88 1. T. A. H. Wylie since December 7, 1882.

West Hebron: West Hebron, Washington County,
Neiv York. Society formed in 1764. Organized by
Northern Presbytery, October, 18 14, as Argyle. J. W..
Stewart, October 13, 1825, to April 5, 1832. Dis-
organized, May 24, 1862, Re-organized by New York
Presbytery, August 29, 1866, as West Hebron. J. A.
Speer since July 28, 1875.

White Lake : White Lake, Sullivan County, New York.
Organized by Northern Presbytery, April 15, 1820.
M. B. Williams, April 15, 1820, to May 16, 1821. J.
B. Williams since November 14, 1850.

WiLKlNSBURGH : Wilkinsburgh, Allegheny Cotinty, Penn-
sylvania. Organized by Pittsburgh Presbytery, July 14,
1848. Thomas Hanna, supply, Joseph Hunter, April
13, 1852, to September 9, 1882. W. W. Carithers since
June 20, 1883.

Wilmington : Wilmington, Delaware. Organized by
Philadelphia Presbytery, December 25, 1832, S. M.
Gayley, December 25, 1832, to August 7, 1833. ^^^'
organized, October, 1834.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 429

WiLMOT : Wilmot, Annapolis County, Nova Scotia.
Organized by New Brunswick and Nova Scotia Pres-
bytery, November 13, 1849. Robert Stewart, November

13, 1849, to May 28, 1881.

Winchester : Winchester, Jefferson Coimty, Kansas.
Organized by Iowa Presbytery, September 7, 1868.
Josiah Dodds, November 7, 1868, to October 17, 1876.
D. H. Coulter since August 17, 1877.

Xenia : Xenia, Ohio. Organized by Middle Presbytery,-
June 19, 1 8 10. John Kell, supply. Jonathan Gill, May

14, 1816, to April 6, 1823. Gavin McMillan, supply.
Hugh McMillan, September 7, 1829, to August 7, 1833.
Disorganized, August 18, 1841.

York : York, Livingstone County, New York. Organ-
ized by Northern Presbytery, November ly, 1823. W.
L. Roberts, November 16, 1826, to October 6, 1830.
John Fisher, July 21, 1831, to July 22, 1845. Samuel
Bowden, December 31, 1846, to November 21, 1876.
W. C. Allen since September 26, 1882.

YOUNGSTOWN : Yoiingstown, Ohio. Organized by Pitts-
burgh Presbytery, October 12, 1885, as remnant of
Poland and North Jackson. H. W. Reed since May 4,.
1888.

430 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

The Ministry.

THOMAS HOUSTON ACHESON:

Son of John and Nancy (Caskey) Acheson, was
born in New Galilee, Beaver County, Pennsylvania,
August lo, 1861. He received his early education in
the schools of his native town, and, in due time, entered
Westminster College, where he remained until his
junior year, and graduated from Geneva College in
1882. He studied theology in the Allegheny Semi-
nary, and was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery,
April 15, 1885, and labored for six months in Kansas
and Nebraska. He was ordained by the Iowa Pres-
bytery, and installed pastor of the congregation of
Hopkinton, Delaware County, Iowa, September 23,
1886, where he is in charge. He married Miss Minnie Hill,
of Crystal Park, Colorado, August 24, 1886. In 1880,
he became an editor of the College Cabinet for two
years.

WILLIAM ANDREW ACHESON:

Son of William and Margaret (Graham) Acheson,
was born in the city of New York, July 28, 18 15.
He was early furnished with the opportunity of acquir-
ing a liberal education in the best schools, and grad-
uated from the University of^ the City of New York

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 43 1

in 1836. He engaged in teaching, and other employ-
ments, for several years. He studied theology under
the direction of the Rev. James Christie, D. D., and
also in the Allegheny Seminary, and was licensed
by the New York Presbytery, December 3, 1847. He
travelled generally throughout the Church, but especially
supplied the vacancies in the South and West, where
his labors were very acceptable. While on his way to
Princeton, Indiana, he was attacked with cholera, and
.died in three days thereafter, in Evansville, Indiana,
November 26, 1850. He never married. Few young
men possessed a more robust constitution, and the
abilities which are peculiarly adapted to missionary
work. He was endowed with a fine mind, and the
. elements of a popular preacher. He was warm in his
attachments, easy in his manners, kind in his deport-
ment, and unaffected in his devotion to the cause of
. Christ.

JOHN STEVENSON ALLEN:

Son of Cochran and Elizabeth (Willson) Allen,
was born in Balm, Mercer County, Pennsylvania,
• October 20, 1857. He received his preparatory course
. of literary training in Grove City College, and grad-
uated from Westminster College in 1882. He studied
theology in the Union Seminary of New York City,
and was licensed by the New York Presbytery, May
20, 1885. He, preached in but a few of the vacancies,
and connected with the Presbyterian Church, being
received by the Presbytery of the City of New York,
February 8, 1886. He was ordained by the West
.Chester Presbytery of that body, and installed pastor

432 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

of Throgg's Neck congregation, West Chester, West
Chester County, New York, May 13, 1886, where he
is in charge.

NATHANIEL ALLEN, M. D. :

Son of Robert and Ann (Gillespie) Allen, was
born near Andes, Delaware County, New York, June
14, 1 8 10. In early life he was cast upon his own
resources, and, with great difficulty, obtained a liberal
education, and taught school in Orange County, New
York, with marked success for many years. He pursued
his classical studied in the Academy of Coldenham, New
York, under the Rev, J. R. Willson, D. D., and grad-
uated from the Oneida Institute, Whitesboro, New
York, in- 1838. He studied theology in the Coldenham
and Allegheny Seminaries, and was licensed by the
Pittsburgh Presbytery, June 29, 1843. He preached
within the bounds of this Presbytery for two years,
and, when transferred to the Lakes Presbytery in
1845, ^^ ■^^s refused appointments and complained to
Synod. For the want of that aptness to teach which
is essential in the ministry, his license was withdrawn
by the authority of Synod, May 31, 1847. In 1848,
he entered the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, com-
pleted the three years' course, and settled in Princeton,.
Indiana, where he practiced medicine as a successful
physician for several years. In 1855, he memorialized
the Synod to consider his case, but failed to receive
his license to preach, and returned to Princeton,.
Indiana, where he died of hemorrhages of the lungs,.
March 29, 1857. He married Miss Eliza J. Reid, of
Rushville, Indiana, March 18, 1846. He was a skilled

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 433

physician and sympathetic to every trouble. He was
a good man, a true Covenanter, scrupulously conscien-
tious in the discharge of all religious duties and
persevering in his purpose, but failed to attain the
grand object of his desires — the Christian ministry.
He received the degree of Doctor of Medicine from
the Ohio Medical College in 1851. He published a
sermon, ''The Help of the Church," 185 1, pp. 16.

ROBERT CAMERON ALLEN:

Son of Samuel and Mary (Gilmore) Allen, was
born in Balm, Mercer County, Pennsylvania, May 4,
1848, He received his elementary literary training in
what is now Grove City College, graduated from
Westminster College in 1875, and engaged in teaching.
He studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and
-was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 8,
1879, and labored in the far West, under the direction
of the Central Board of Missions. He was ordained by
the Kansas Presbytery, and installed pastor of the
■congregation of Superior, Nuckolls County, Nebraska,
December 8, 1882, and was released October 15, 1884.
He was installed pastor of the Lochiel congregation,
Brodie, Ontario, Canada, October 18, 1887, where he is
in charge. He married Miss Lizzie S. Little, of West
Fairfield, Pennsylvania, June 28, 1878.

THOMAS JOHN ALLEN :

Son of Robert and Jane (Willson) Allen, was born
-in Findley, Mercer County, Pennsylvania, July 18, 1848.
He received his early education in what is now Grove
City College, and graduated from Westminster College
in 1 87 1. He studied theology in the Allegheny

434 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Seminary, and was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery,
April 15, 1874. He was ordained by the Rochester
Presbytery, and installed pastor of the congregation of
Sterling, Cayuga County, New York, November ii, 1875,
and resigned this charge, June i, 1887, and removed to
Balm, Pennsylvania. Recently he has engaged in
evangelistic work with fruitful results. He married Miss
Nannie Ramsey, of Oakdale, Illinois, August 28, 1877.

WILLIAM COCHRAN ALLEN:

Son of Cochran and Elizabeth (Willson) Allen,
was born in Balm, Mercer County, Pennsylvania,
November 7, 1854. He received his rudimentary
literary education in what is now Grove City College,
and graduated from Westminster College in 1877. He
studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and was
licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 13, 1881,,
and labored for some time in Lake Reno and Round
Prairie, Minnesota. He was ordained by the Rochester
Presbytery, and installed pastor of the congregation of
York, Livingston County, New York, September 28,
1882, where he is in charge. He married Miss Jeanie
A. Black, of London, Pennsylvania, June i, 1882.

JOHN Mclaughlin armour:

Son of Thomas G. and Mary A. (Cathcart) Armour,
was born in Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois, October
9, 1825. He received his early education in the schools
of his native village, and in the city of St. Louis,
Missouri, and graduated from Geneva College in 1852.
He studied theology in the Cincinnati Seminary, and at
the same time with his literary course in the Northwood
Seminary, and was licensed by the Lakes Presbytery,,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 435

April 1 6, 1852. He was ordained by the New York
Presbytery, and installed pastor of the congregation of
Craftsbury, Orleans County, Vermont, September 23,
1857, and resigned October 31, 1865, and took charge
of the Freedmen's Mission in Washington, D. C. He
was installed pastor of the congregation of Syracuse,
New York, June 8, 1867, and resigned September 9,
1873. He removed to Northwood, Logan County, Ohio,
and was a supply for three years. He took charge of
the congregation of Sterling, Rice County, Kansas,
April I, 1877, and resigned May 26, 1885. He removed
to the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he is
devoting himself to the work of an author and supplying
vacant pulpits. He married Miss Mary E. Sudborough,
of Hamilton, Canada, March 21, 1856. Among his
publications are: "Atonement and Law," 1885, pp. 240,
three editions. "The Divine Method of Life," 1887,
pp, 250.

JOHN OWEN PAYEES:

Son of Stephen and Martha (McVey) Bayles, was
born in Cherry Fork, Adams County, Ohio, February 4,
1835. He received his early education in that vicinity,
and with the family removed to Northwood, Logan .
County, Ohio, where he graduated from Geneva College
in 1857. He studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary
and was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April
25, i860.* He supplied vacant congregations and mission
stations, and, in the spring of 1864, took charge of the
Freedmen's Mission in Washington. D. C. He was
ordained by the New York Presbytery, and installed
pastor of the Kortright congregation. West Kortright,.

436 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

Delaware County, New York, January lO, 1866, where
he is in charge. He married Miss Martha B. Floyd, of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, November 30, 1865.

JOSEPH BEATTIE, D. D.:

Son of John and Eliza (McKinney) Beattie, was
born in Saint Andrews, Orange County, New York,
October 17, 1830. His mother was a daughter of the
Rev. James McKinney, and his father a pious Cove-
nanter and an elder in the Coldenham congregation.
He pursued his preparatory literary studies in the
schools of his native county and graduated from Union
College in 1852. He studied theology in Philadelphia,
under the direction of the Rev. James M. Willson, D.
D., and was licensed by the Philadelphia Presbytery,
May 26, 1856. The next week he was chosen by
.Synod as a Missionary to Syria. Accepting this appoint-
ment, he was ordained si7te titiilo by the New York
Presbytery, September 23, 1856, and, with Dr. R. J.
Dodds and others, sailed for that foreign land, October
16, 1856. He first settled in Damascus, where he
pursued his studies in the Arabic language, and became
a proficient scholar in that tongue. After exploring
many parts of the Holy Land, he finally settled in
Latakia in 1859, where suitable buildings were subse-
quently erected, and where he spent the rest of his
life in the proper work of a Missionary. He visited
the United States three times — in 1863, 1876 and 1878,
and in those visits he lectured through all parts of
the Church and awakened an interest in the Foreign
Mission. Upon his last visit he left his wife to educate
his children in this country, but scarcely had he' reached

JOSEPH BEATTIE, D. D.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 437

the sacred soil of Syria, when he received the distress-
ing intelligence of her death, and he immediately
returned to his motherless children. He soon after-
wards returned to Syria, and, in 1880, opened a Theo-
logical School for the training of a native ministry.
He died at his home in Latakia, Syria, of gastric fever,
October 8, 1883. He was a man of fine personal
appearance, of ripe experience and of sound judgment,
to whom the missionaries, as well as the native scholars,
looked for counsel and direction. He was a faithful
minister, a most judicious teacher, and one universally
beloved for his kindness to his fellow-teachers and
sympathy for the distressed heathen. He was a man
firm in his convictions and unyielding in his fidelity
to truth and duty. He did yeoman service in establish-
ing the Syrian Mission, and was instrumental in
bringing many souls to a saving knowledge of Christ.
He married Miss Martha E. Lord, of Camden, Delaware,
September 16, 1856. He was honored with the degree
of Doctor of Divinity by Union College in 1878. He
was Moderator of the Synod of 1876.

JAMES MILLIGAN BEATTIE :

Son of John and Sarah (Haines) Beattie, was born
in Saint Andrews, Orange County, New York, Septem-
ber 24, 181 1. He was a half-brother to Rev. Joseph
Beattie, D. D., and received an equally strict religious
training in the home of his pious parents. He received
his preparatory literary studies in the Coldenham
Academy of his native County, and graduated from
Union College in 1834. He studied theology in the
Coldenham Seminary under the Rev. James R. Willson,

438 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

D. D., one year. In 1840, he went to Scotland and
studied theology in the Paisley Seminary, and was
licensed by the Paisley Presbytery, of the Covenanter
Church, April 13, 1843. He returned to this country
the same year, was ordained by the New York Presby-
tery, May 29, 1844, and installed pastor of the united
congregations of Ryegate and Barnet, Caledonia
County, Vermont, June 20, 1844. At the organization
of the Barnet congregation, he resigned that branch,.
May 24, 1872, and on account of declining strength
he was released from Ryegate, May 17, 1882. For
two years he endured much severe suffering of the
body, and died at his home in Ryegate, Caledonia
County, Vermont, March 9, 1884. He married Miss
Margaret S. Nelson, of Ryegate, Vermont, December
25, 1855. He was a sound theologian, an instructive
preacher, and a faithful shepherd of the flock which
Christ gave him. He was studious in his habits,
reserved in his manners, and exemplary in his deport-
ment. He was peculiarly gifted in prayer, conscienti-
ously regular in the performance of Christian duties,^
and thoroughly devoted to the work of the Master.

ANDREW WATSON BLACK, D. D. :

Son of Rev. Dr. John and Elizabeth (Watson)
Black, was born in the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
April 24, 1808. He received a strict religious training
in the home of his distinguished father, pursued his
preparatory literary course in the Pittsburgh Academy
under Dr. Robert Bruce, and graduated from the
Western University of Pennsylvania in 1826. He studied
theology in the Philadelphia Seminary, and was licensed

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 439

by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, February 10, 1828. He
itinerated throughout the vacancies and travelled
extensively through Tennessee and South Carolina.
He was ordained by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, and
installed pastor of the united congregations of Shenango,
Mercer and Neshannock, Neshannock Falls, Lawrence
County, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1832. In August,
1833, he, and the majority of the congregation, became
identified with the New School branch of the Cove-
nanter Church. He resigned his congregation August
10, 1838, and removed to the city of Pittsburgh. He
was installed pastor of a colony of his father's con-
gregation in the city of Allegheny, Pennsylvania, May
16, 1839, and also performed the duties of Chaplain
in the Western Penitentiary. In 1855, he resigned
these charges, and became agent for the American
Bible Society. In May, 1858, he was chosen by his
Church to the chair of theology in the Philadelphia
Seminary, and, while preparing to enter upon the duties
of this important office, he was taken with dysentery,
and died very suddenly at his home in Sewickleyville,
in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, September 10,
1858. He was a fine scholar, a forcible writer, and
a popular preacher. He took a prominent part in all
Church work, and was interested in many literary
institutions and benevolent societies of his native city.
He married Miss Margaret Roseburgh, of Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania, January i, 1835. He was honored with
the degree of Doctor of Divinity by Rutgers College
in 1852. He was Moderator of the General Synods
of 1842 and 1853.

440 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

JOHN B-LACK, D. D. :

Son of John and Margaret (McKibbin) Black, was
born in Ahoghill, County Antrim, Ireland, October 2,
1768. He received the rudiments of a classical educa-
tion in the schools of his native country, and grad-
uated from the University of Glasgow, Scotland, in
1790. He returned to Ireland where he engaged in
teaching, and also began the study of theology. He
came to America in the fall of 1797, as an exile for
liberty at the time of the Irish insurrection. He was
employed for some time as a teacher of the classics
near the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and sub-
sequently in connection with the University of Penn-
sylvania. He resumed his theological studies, and was
licensed by the Reformed Presbytery, at Coldenham,
Orange County, New York, June 24, 1799. Being
assigned by this court to labor in Western Penn-
sylvania, he soon afterwards gathered the Ohio con-
gregation, centering in Pittsburgh, and including all
the societies of Covenanters west of the Allegheny
mountains. He was ordained by the Reformed Pres-
bytery, and installed pastor of this extensive con-
gregation, December 18, 1800. In 1806, the congrega-
tion was divided into three parts, and he remained
pastor of the portion in and around the city of
Pittsburgh, which soon became a large and influential
charge. He also was engaged as a classical teacher,
and, in 1820, was elected Professor of Latin and
Greek in the Western University of Pennsylvania, and
resigned in 1832, when he visited Europe. He was
President of Duquesne College one year. At the

JOHN BLACK, D. D.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 44I

division of the Church in August, 1833, he became
identified with the New School branch of the Cove-
nanter Church. He remained pastor of a majority of
his former congregation until his death, at his residence
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, October 25, 1849. He-
was a remarkably proficient scholar, especially in the'
languages, and spent most of his life in teaching.
He was identified with almost all the literary and
charitable institutions of his adopted city, and was a
zealous advocate of every reform. He was the first
Covenanter minister settled west of the Allegheny
mountains, and the pioneer missionary in the new West,
During the suspension of the Theological Seminary
after 1828, he taught a class in theology in con-
nection with his other duties. He was a great man.
His preaching talents were of a high order. He
possessed a lively imagination and dwelt largely in
allegory, sometimes enrapturing his audience with de-
scriptions of Scripture figures and scenery. He was a
ready and forcible extemporaneous speaker on all
subjects, and never refused an invitation to preach.
His life was too busy with collegiate and ministerial
duties to effect much as an author, yet he published
some valuable articles in the newspapers and maga-
zines of the Church in his day. Among his publica-
tions are: "Church Fellowship," 1819, pp. 109' "The
Bible against Slavery," 1839, pp. 36. "The Baptist
Controversy," 1846, pp. 52. "The Duration of the
Mediatorial Dominion," 1848, pp. 32. The "Directory
of Worship" is from his pen, and he wrote the Latin
Introduction to Rabbi Leeser's issue of the Hebrew

442 HISTORY OK THE REFORMED

Jiiblc. lie married Miss IClizabcth Watson, of Titts-
burj,^h, I'cnnsylvania, in 1802. He was honored with
the degree of Doctor of Divinity by Washington
College in 1824. He was Moderator of the Reformed
Presbytery in 1801, and previous to 1833, the stated
Clerk of Synod for many years. He was Moderator
of the General Synod in 1837.

JOHN IH.ACK, Jr.:

Son of Rev. Dr. John and l^lizabeth (Watson) Black,
was born in the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, April
9, 1806. He received his preparatory course of literary
training in the Pittsburgh Academy under Dr. Robert
Bruce, and graduated from the Western University of
I'ennsylvania in 1825. He studied theology in the
Philadelphia Seminary, and also under the direction of
Jlis distinguished father, and was licensed by the Pitts-
burgh Presbytery, April 22, 1 828. His trial discourses
■were the last he delivered, for at that time he was
greatly reduced by consumption, from which disease he
-died at the house of his uncle, the Rev. Dr. S. B.
Wylie, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 15, 1828.
He was unmarried. He was a large and exceedingly
muscular man, and possessed a commanding appearance.
His scholarly attainments and natural endowments gave
ample promise that, had he been spared, he would
have become a powerful preacher and an able divine.

JAMKS ALICXANDKR BLACK:

Son of Samuel and Elizabeth (lk-11) Black, was
born near Dromore, County Down, Ireland, * * *
He came with his parents to America in 1841, and settled
in the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he received

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 443

his early education in the public schools, and graduated
from Allegheny City College in 1862. lie studied theology
in the Allegheny Seminary, and was licensed by the Pitts-
burgh Presbytery, May 23, 1867. He was ordained by the
same Presbytery, and installed pastor of the congregation
of Clarksburgh, Indiana County, Pennsylvania, November
18, 1868, and resigned this charge, April 11, 1882. In
the fall of 1882, he accepted the Presidency of the
Polytechnic Institute, Allegheny City, Pennsylvania,
which position he occupied three years. He was
installed pastor of the Rehoboth congregation, Wyman,
Louisa County, Iowa, February 9, 1886, where he is in
charge. He married Miss Tirzah M, Cannon, of New
Alexandria, Pennsylvania, June 8, 1876.

JAMKS BLACKWOOD :

Son of Thomas and Martha (Akin) Blackwood, was
born in Ardstraw, County Tyrone, Ireland, August 14,
1793- He was early dedicated to the work of the
gospel ministry, and received his preparatory course of
study in the schools of his native County. In 1811,
he entered the University of Glasgow, Scotland, where
he remained three years, and then engaged in teaching.
In 18 1 8, he repaired to Belfast, Ireland, where he
resumed his literary and theological studies, and was
licensed by the Southern Presbytery, Ireland, May 10,
1822. He came to America in 1824, with other
members of the family, and settled in Belmont County,
Ohio, and missionated throughout Western Pennsylvania
and Ohio for several years. To fully meet the
exigencies of his work, he was ordained sine titulo by
the Pittsburgh Presbytery, May 8, 1826. He was

444 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

installed pastor of the Brush Creek congregation, Locust
Grove, Adams County, Ohio, April 12, 1827, and was
released April 9, 1829. He remained unsej:tled for
nearly five years, during most of which time he was
actively engaged in missionary work. He was installed
pastor of the united congregations of Little Beaver,
Austintown, Camp Run, Slippery Rock. Greenville and
Sandy Lake, principally in Beaver and Lawrence
Counties, Pennsylvania, May 24, 1834. In 1838, Little
Beaver, Austintown and Greenville, and in 1850, Sandy
Lake, became separate congregations, and he confined
his labors to Slippery Rock and Camp Run until his
death. In 1850, his health began to decline, and, at
times, he was unable to fully attend to his ministerial
duties. His sufferings were often intense, and his disease
took the form of dropsy, from which he died at his
home near Portersville, Pennsylvania, October 8, 185 1.
He was a clear and instructive preacher, a faithful
pastor, and a rigid disciplinarian. He possessed an
ardent temperament, and was strong in his attachments
as well as decided in his antipathies.* With strangers
he was somewhat formal and distant, but, when he
discovered in them true manhood, honesty and piety^
they were received into his friendship. He was exceed-
ingly tender in his feelings, and peculiarly sympathetic
to those in suffering or in sorrow from bereavements
He was social and lively in his disposition, and made
the hour of relaxation teem with pleasantry. He was
a good Presbyter, and was not absent from a meeting
of Synod during his ministry, where his opinion upon
*Sprague's Annals, p. 78, by Rev. Dr. T. Sproull.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 445

ecclesiastical questions was highly regarded. He married
Miss Jemima Calderwood, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
August 18, 1833. He was Moderator of the Synod of 1838.

JOHN HASLETT BOGGS :

Son of John and Annabella (Haslett) Boggs, was
born in the city of Allegheny, Pennsylvania, December
7, 1837. He received his preparatory course of study
in the public schools of his native city, and graduated
from Allegheny City College in i860. He studied
theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and was licensed
by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 12, 1864. He was
ordained by the New York Presbytery, and installed •
pastor of the congregation of Brooklyn, New York,.
December 14, 1864, and resigned this charge,
November 19, 1880. He connected with the Presby-
terian Church, and was received by the Philadelphia
Presbytery of that body, April 6, 1881. He was installed
pastor of the Hermon congregation, Frankford, near
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 26, 1881, and resigned
June 4, 1887. He spent some time in California for
his health, with the expectation of returning to the
East. He married Miss M. A. Taylor, of Allegheny
City, Pennsylvania, January 6, 1865. He was an editor
of Our Banner from 1874, to 1880. He published "Why
Covenanters do not Vote," 1872, pp. 15.

JOHN ALEXANDER FINLEY BOVARD :

Son of George and Jane (Finley) Bovard, was born
in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, March 7,
185 1. In early life his parents removed to Lake
County, Indiana, where he received his early education
in the schools of Hebron and Crown Point. He resumed

446 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

his classical studies in Geneva College, and graduated
from the State Normal School, Valparaiso, Indiana, in
1877. He studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary,
and was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 13,
1880. He was ordained sine titulo by the New Bruns-
wick and Nova Scotia Presbytery, as a missionary to
Houlton, Maine, July 28, 1881, where he labored
three years. He was installed pastor of the united
congregations of Oil Creek and Oil City, Pennsylvania,
June 12, 1884, where he is in charge. He married
Miss Mary J. Jamison, of Allegheny City, Pennsylvania,
January 15, 1880.

SAMUEL BOWDEN:

Son of Andrew and Rose (Witherspoon) Bowden,
was born in the city of New York, New York,
August 26, 1822. He received his preparatory literary
training in the private schools of his native city, and
graduated from Columbia College in 1840. He studied
theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and was licensed
by the New York Presbytery, October 29, 1844. He
was ordained by the Rochester Presbytery, and installed
pastor of the congregation of York, Livingston County,
New York, December 31, 1846, and resigned this
•charge, November 21, 1876. He withdrew from the
communion of the Covenanter Church, October 6, 1880,
and connected with the Presbyterian Church, being
received by the Rochester Presbytery of that body,
April 19, 1 88 1, He took charge of the congregation
of Tonawanda, Wyoming County, New York, May 6,
1883, and resides in Le Roy, Genesee County, New
York. He was twice married. First to Miss Maria

SAMUEL BOWDEN.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 447

O. Beattie, of St. Andrews, New York, October 24,
1848 ; and second to Miss Mary E. Donnan, of York,
New York, April 20, 1864. He was Moderator of the
Synod of 1864.

JOHN CALVIN BOYD :

Son of Robert and Mary (McMaster) Boyd, was
born in the city of Steubenville, Ohio, June 27, 18 14.
His father was an accomplished scholar and teacher,
and his mother was distinguished for her piety and traits
of Christian character. His religious and literary train-
ing early fitted him for becoming a teacher of others,
and in this occupation he began in Utica, Licking
County, Ohio, where he became a successful teacher
and prosecuted his classical studies. In 1840, he entered
Miami University, where he remained two years. He
studied theology under the Rev. Armour McFarland,
and also in the Cincinnati Seminary, and was licensed
by the Lakes Presbytery, May 7, 1846. He was
ordained by the same Presbytery, and installed pastor
of the Sandusky congregation, Cresline, Crawford
County, Ohio, May 13, 1847, and also of the congrega-
tion of Utica, Licking County, Ohio, November 26,
1856. He resigned the Sandusky branch, November 6,
1867, and devoted his whole time to Utica. He
resigned this charge on account of impaired health,
October 4, 1882, and supplied throughout the Ohio
Presbytery as his health would permit. He died at
his home in Utica, Ohio, of nervous chills and typhoid
fever, June 3, 1886. He married Miss Jane McCune,
of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, May 30, 1850. He was
a well-read theologian of the old school, a most

448 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

logical reasoner, and an instructive preacher. He was-
a fearless advocate of the cause of the slave, hazarded
his interests and even his life for the overthrow of
human slavery, and bore constant testimony against the
evils of both Church and State. He was well grounded
in the truth of the Word of God, most decided in his
convictions, and punctual in the performance of all
religious duties. He was recognized in Church courts
for his clear discussion and sound judgment on
questions pertaining to the good of Zion. He was
highly esteemed in the community where he labored,
and the quiet, yet exemplary, life which he lived, was
a strong testimony to the power of the gospel which
he so successfully preached. He published some
sermons and articles of importance in the papers and
magazines of the Church.

PATTERSON PROUDFIT BOYD:

Son of James and Jane (Speer) Boyd, was born near
Londonderry, Guernsey County, Ohio, August 2, 1842.
In 1852, his parents removed to Oskaloosa, Iowa, and
were devoted members of the Associate Church, in
which he was reared. Here he received his early
education in Oskaloosa College, and in 1865, entered
Muskingum College, where he graduated in 1868. He
studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and was
licensed by the Ohio Presbytery, April 12, 1871. He was
ordained by the Lakes Presbytery, and installed pastor
of the congregation of Cedarville, Greene County, Ohio,
May 22, 1872, and resigned this charge, April 8, 1874..
He was installed pastor of the Old Bethel congregation,
Houston, Randolph (bounty, Illinois, July 20, 1874, and

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 449

resigned this charge, December 12, 1887. He was
installed pastor of the congregation of Superior, Nuckolls
County, Nebraska, March 16, 1888, where he is in
charge. He married Miss Laura C. Foster, of Cedar-
ville, Ohio, October 17, 1872,

JAMES BROWN :

Was born in Penpont, Dumfries Shire, Scotland,
July 18, 1 812. He received his early education in the
best schools of his native village, and graduated from
the University of Glasgow, Scotland, in 1835. He
studied theology in the Seminary of Paisley, Scotland,
under the direction of the Rev. Andrew Symington,
and was licensed by the Paisley Presbytery, April 28,
1840. He preached with a good degree of success in.
that country for many years. He came to America in
the fall of 1855, ^^^^ preached for several years in the
vacancies. He returned to Scotland, and was for some
years a Chaplain to an institution in Edinburgh, and
finally was lost sight of by the Church, and ceased
preaching. In the latter part of his life he returned
to his native Shire of Dumfries, where he died, Sep-
tember 8, 1883. He was a good man, a fair scholar,
but, upon the whole, unappreciated as a preacher.

JAMES STEWART BUCK:

Son of John and Jane (Stewart) Buck, Avas born
near De Kalb, Richland County, Ohio, June 24, 1835.
His parents were members of the Associate Reformed
Church, with which he also connected in his nineteenth
year. He began his classical studies in Oberlin College,
resumed them in Hayesville Academy, of his native
■County, and, in 1857, entered Jefferson College, but was

450 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

not permitted to complete the full course on account
of failing health. In 1858, he removed to New GaUlee,
Beaver County, Pennsylvania, where he opened an
Academy. Not being satisfied with the Associate-
Reformed Church as to her position on civil government,,
he acceded to the Covenanter Church in the fall of
i860. He studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary,,
and was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April
23, 1864, He missionated in Oil City, Pennsylvania,
and other parts of the Church, until frequent and severe
hemorrhages of the lungs compelled him to cease
preaching. After a much needed rest, he was ordained
sine titulo by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, May 21, 1867,
and sent by the Central Board of Missions as a
missionary to the North-West region. He soon after-
wards settled in Elliota, Fillmore County, Minnesota,
where he labored amid many discouragements and much
weakness of body for nearly three years. While on his
way to Synod in May, 1870, his strength failed, and
he was but able to reach the home of his father-in-law,
near Rose Point, Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, where
he lingered a few months, and died from consumption,
October 13, 1870. He married Miss M. J. Davis, of
Rose Point, Pennsylvania, in 1859. He was an able,
studious and conscientious preacher of the gospel ; a
humble, unassuming Christian, and from a rich experience
declared the truth to dying men. He was most diligent
and prayerful in his work, kind and attentive to all
the members of his congregation, cheerful and hopeful
in every trial. In appearance he was tall, slender, bent,
and emaciated with disease. He often spoke with great

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 45 1

difficulty, leaning upon the pulpit or sitting upon a
chair, and his discourses were highly evangelical and
deeply impressive. Among his publications are numerous
letters to the Mission Board, and a posthumous tract,
"Position of the Reformed Presbyterian Church," 1871,.
pp. 16.

JOHN CANNON:

Son of Hugh and Mary (Thompson) Cannon, was
born in Dungiven, County Londonderry, Ireland, Nov-
ember 19, 1784. His parents were exemplary mem-
bers of the Presbyterian Church, who emigrated to
America in 1787, and settled in Westmoreland County,
Pennsylvania. Becoming dissatisfied with the use of
human psalmody in the worship of God, the family
connected with Associate Reformed Church in 1788.
He received his early literary instructions under private
teachers, and graduated from Jefferson College in 1810.
During his college course he espoused the principles
of the Covenanter Church, and decided to study for
the ministry. He studied theology in the Philadelphia
Seminary, and was licensed by the Middle Presbytery^
May 23, 181 5. He was ordained by the same Pres-
bytery, and installed pastor of the congregation of
Greensburgh, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Sep-
tember 16, 18 16, where he continued to labor until
his death. During the unpleasant controversy and
division of the Church in 1833, he stood firm to the
Covenanted cause, and was chosen Moderator of that
notable Synod, showing the high esteem and confi-
dence which his brethern placed in him. For a num-
ber of years before his death, he labored under a

452 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

disease of the liver, which was aggravated by the
fatigue and exposure which he was called upon to
endure in reaching his places of preaching. His last
public ministrations were during the communion season
in August, 1835, when his disease exhibited the symp-
toms of dropsy, and he gradually declined until his
death, at his home near Greensburgh, Pennsylvania,
February 2, 1836. He married Miss Martha Brown of
Greensburgh, Pennsylvania, May, 18 18. In appearance
he was of medium size, well proportioned, dark com-
plexion, and possessed a grave and pleasing counte-
nance. He was a very acceptable preacher, and his
pastoral labors were signally blessed in the gathering
of several societies which are now flourishing con-
gregations. He was apt to teach, practical in apply-
ing truth, and prudent in managing difficult cases of
discipline. He possessed a noble generosity of spirit,
firmness of purpose, and amiability of manners. He
was Moderator of the Synods of 18 19 and 1833.

ROBERT BROWN CANNON, D. D. :

Son of Rev. John and Martha (Brown) Cannon,
was born near Greensburgh, Westmoreland County,
Pennsylvania, October 4, 1821. He received his early
education under the direction of his father, studied the
classics under the Rev. Hugh Walkinshaw, finished the
classical course in the Greensburgh Academy, and
graduated from the Western University of Pennsylvania
in 1842. He was Principal of the Darlington Academy
one year. He studied theology in the Allegheny and
Cincinnati Seminaries, and was licensed by the Lakes
Presbytery, May 7, 1846. He was ordained by the

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 453

Pittsburgh Presbytery, and installed pastor of the
united congregations of Greensburgh, Westmoreland
County, and Clarksburgh, Indiana County, Pennsylvania,
May 5, 1847, ^rid resigned this charge, April 4, 1854.
He was installed pastor of the Rehoboth congregation,
Wyman, Louisa County, Iowa, December 14, 1854,
and resigned December 17, 1867. He was installed
pastor of the congregation of Vernon, Waukesha County,
Wisconsin, September 13, 1872, and resigned May 28,
1878. He removed to Cameron, Clinton County, Missouri,
and labored under appointment of the Central Board
of Missions, and also preached for two years gratui-
tously to the colored people of that place. He was
installed pastor of the Jonathan's Creek congregation.
White Cottage, Muskingum County, Ohio, September
9, 1886, where he is in charge. He was twice mar-
ried. First to Miss Juliett H. Willson, of Cincinnati,
Ohio, November 9, 1846; and second to Miss Elizabeth
Biggam, of New York City, New York, June 10, 1856.
He was honored with the degree of Doctor of Divinity
by Iowa University in 1868.

WILLIAM WORK CARITHERS :

Son of Andrew T. and Mary (Reid) Carithers,
was born near Linton, Des Moines County, Iowa,
December 19, 1854. He received his early education
in the Academy of Morning Sun, Iowa, and entered
Geneva College, where he tutored, and graduated in
1878. He studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary,
and was licensed by the Iowa Presbytery, April 13,
1882. He was ordained by the Pittsburgh Presbytery,
and installed pastor of the congregation of Wilkins-

28

454 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

burgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, June 20, 1883,
where he is in charge. He married Miss Ella M.
George, of Venice, Pennsylvania, May i, 1883.

JOHN FENTON CARLISLE:

Son of Rev. Samuel and Margaret M. (Fenton)
Carlisle, was born in the city of Newburgh, New York,
September 21, 1858. He received his early education
in the public schools, and also in the Banks Classical
School of his native city, and graduated from Columbia
College in 1880. He studied theology in the Allegheny
Seminary, and was licensed by the New York Presby-
tery, May 16, 1883. He was ordained by the Pitts-
burgh Presbytery, and installed pastor of the congrega-
tion of New Alexandria, Westmoreland County, Penn-
sylvania, June 16, 1884, and resigned this charge,
January 26, 1888.

SAMUEL CARLISLE:

Son of Rev. Samuel and Letitia (Craig) Carlisle,
was born in Ballibay, County Monaghan, Ireland, May
4, 1828. His father was an eminent minister of the
Covenanter Church, and he was reared in the most
careful manner by a pious parentage. He received his
early education in the Coleraine Academy, and gradu-
ated from Belfast College in 1847. He studied theology
in the Seminary of Paisley, Scotland, and was licensed
by the Northern Presbytery, Ireland, May 4, 1848. In
the following' spring he came to America, was ordained
by the New York Presbytery, and installed pastor of
the First congregation of Newburgh, New York,
November 15, 1849, where he spent the remainder of
his life. On January 4, 1887, he was stricken with

SAMUEL CARLISLE.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 455

paralysis, which completely disabled his left side, and
laid him prostrate upon his bed. For a time his life
was in jeopardy, but in the spring he rallied, and was
able to walk out, attended church and preached once.
In order that he might be relieved from the excite-
ment of the meeting of Synod in iSTewburgh, he was
advised to leave the city. Accordingly, accompanied
by his wife, he repaired to Ocean Grove, New Jersey,
where he seemed to improve and where everything
was done for his comfort. But, as he expressed it,
"his work was done." A second stroke rendered him
unconscious for four days, and he lay motionless until
his death, at Ocean Grove, New Jersey, July 3, 1887.
His body was taken back to Newburgh and buried in
Cedar Hill Cemetery. He married Miss Margaret M.
Fenton, of Newburgh, New York, May 10, 1853. He
was an able preacher of the gospel. He was a careful
Bible student, thoroughly conscientious in preparing for
the pulpit, and consecrated his whole life to the
service of his Master. His labors met with general
appreciation, and he exerted an influence for good in
the community where he spent the whole of his
ministerial life. He possessed a good physical constitu-
tion, a clear and sonorous voice, and preached with a
seriousness and directness that never failed to impress
his hearers. He was pre-eminently a man of prayer.
He was fearless in attacking evil and prudent in
presenting Reformation principles. He identified himself
with every good work of the city and was held in
the highest esteem by his fellow citizens. The work
of preaching Christ he did conscientiously, faithfully

456 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

and successfully. He was a public spirited man. He
was a Director of the Newburgh Bible Society, a
Manager of the Home of the Friendless, and prominent
in the local National Reform and Temperance move-
ments. Among his publications are a " Centennial
Sermon," preached at Washington's Headquarters, New-
burgh, 1876, pp. 20. "A History of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church of Newburgh, and a Characteristic
sketch of Dr. James R. Willson," 1885, pp. 10. He
was Moderator of the Synod of 1S86.
JOHN FLEMING CARSON :

Son of William and Margaret (Fleming) Carson,
was born in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
January 28, i860. He received his early education in
the public schools and in the West Philadelphia
Academy, and completed a special classical course in
the University of Pennsylvania. He studied theology
in the Allegheny Seminary, and was licensed by the
Philadelphia Presbytery, April 28, 1884. He was ordained
by the New York Presbytery, and installed pastor of
the congregation of Brooklyn, New York, May 20, 1885,
where he is in charge. He married Miss Rebecca Mc-
Knight, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, February 9, 1886.
JAMES CHRISTIE, D. D. :

Son of Major James and Mary (Weygand) Christie,
was born in the city of New York, New York, Feb-
ruary 20, 1786.* His father was a distinguished
Revolutionary officer, and his mother a saintly woman
abounding in deeds of chairty. They were exemplary
members of the Associate Reformed Church, with which
* Sketch by Rev. John Forsythe, D. D., Newburgh, N. Y.

JAMESXHRISTIE, D. D.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 457

he also connected in early life under the pastoral care
of the Rev. John M. Mason, D. D. He received a
careful religious training in the home, a thorough
literary education in the best schools of the city, and
graduated from Columbia College in 1806. He became
a prosperous merchant in New York City, and soon
afterwards connected with the Dutch Reformed Church.
In 1812, he abandoned commercial life and resolved to
devote himself to the work of the gospel ministry. In
the autumn of 18 12, he began the study of theology
in the Seminary of the Associate Reformed Church in
New York, under Dr. John M. Mason, as a student of
the Dutch Reformed Church, and was licensed by the
Classis of New York, April 13, 181 5. He was ordained
by the Classis of Washington, and installed pastor of
the congregation of Union Village (now Greenwich)^
Washington County, New York, November 18, 18 16.
In the spring of 181 8, he connected with the Associate-
Reformed Church, and was installed pastor of the con-
gregation of Newburgh, New York, September 6, 18 18..
While laboring in this charge he became intimately^
associated with the Rev. James R. Willson, D. D.,.
whose influence and arguments produced a change iry
his former views, and he acceded to the communion of"
the Covenanter Church, being received by the Northern
Presbytery, October 12, 1821. He was installed pastor
of the congregation of Albany, New York, June 12,
1822. Here he founded the Albany Grammar School,
which soon became a flourishing classical institution.
He resigned the Albany congregation, May 17, 1830,
and devoted himself to teaching, and preached frequently-

458 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

in Troy and Lansingburgh, New York. In the con-
troversy of 1833, he was in the hottest of the battle,
and stood firm and unyielding to the Covenanted cause
which he had espoused. He was installed pastor of the
First congregation of New York City, New York,
November 16, 1836, and resigned this important charge
October 15, 1856, and accepted the chair of Systematic
Theology in the Allegheny Seminary, where he con-
tinued with great acceptance for two years. He was
deposed from the ministerial office and privileges in the
Covenanter Church, on a charge of immorality, by the
New York Presbytery, November 3, 1858. He removed
to Brooklyn, New York, and was afterwards restored to
private membership in the Dutch Reformed Church, and
where he died, November 17, 1863. He married Miss
Margaret Nichol.son, of New York City, in 1807. He
^vas a profoii (i theologian, a proficient linguist, a
thorough scientist, and an impressive evangelical preacher
of the gospel. He was acknowledged as a scholar and
theologian on both sides of the Atlantic. He was a
prominent minister of the Church, deeply interested in
all her schemes and missionary operations, and held
many responsible positions, which he discharged with
ability and satisfaction. He published " Strictures upon
Dr. ^laso ' '" i f-^r Sacramental Communion on Catholic
Principles, 1021, pp. 212, which was afterwards repub-
lished in Europe with a commendatory preface by Dr.
McCrie, the biographer of John Knox. He was also
the author of many scientific and theological articles
published in the reviews and magazines of his day.
He was honored with the degree of Doctor of Divinity

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 459

by Jefferson College in 1855. He was Moderator of
the Synods of 1828 and 1849.

ALEXANDER CLARKE, D. D. :

Son of William and Elizabeth (Craig) Clarke, was
born near Kilrea, County Londonderry, Ireland, July
16, 1793." His parents were pious Covenanters and
he early embraced the principles of that Church, and
defended them successfully in several debates. After
passing through the accustomed rudimentary studies
in the classical school of Mr. Ferris, he entered Bel-
fast College, and graduated from Glasgow University,
Scotland, in 18 19. He was chosen by the Synod of
Ireland to go as a missionary to the North American
British Provinces, and for this purpose, after having
studied theology privately and at Paisley, Scotland,
was licensed and ordained, May 24, 1827. He arrived
in St. John, New Brunswick, August 23, 1827, and,
after some explorations, in the following November,
selected Amherst, Nova Scotia, as the centre of mission-
ary operations. He travelled extensively through all
parts of the Maritime Provinces, and established some
fifteen mission stations. In 1831, he was joined by the
Rev. William Sommerville, and they were instrumental
in bringing many souls to a saving knowledge of
Christ and to accept the principles of the Covenanter
Church. Desiring the liberty and privileges of citi-
zenship in Nova Scotia, Mr. Clarke, and all the con-
gregations he represented, became identified with the
New School branch of the Covenanter Church, October
14, 1847, and were united to the General Synod of the

* Items furnished by the Rev. Nevin Woodside, Pittsburgh, Pa.

460 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

United States. He continued to labor in Amherst,
Nova Scotia, and the vicinity, until shortly before his
death, caused by general debility and old age, March
15, 1874. He married Miss Catharine McMillan, of
Belfast, Ireland, May 22, 1821. He was a sound theo-
logian, a true philanthropist, and an able soldier of
the Cross. He was highly esteemed by men who did
not agree with him in his religious beliefs, because of
his fearless proclamation of the truth as he accepted it.
He was a powerful controversialist. His masterly irony,,
clear and logical deductions and unanswerable Scriptural
arguments, together with his wonderful memory, com-
mand of language and versatility of thought, gave him
a power over his opponents seldom surpassed. He
was a large well-built man, capable of undergoing
many hardships, and the type of a man adapted in
every way as a pioneer missionary. He was honored
with the degree of Doctor of Divinity by the Uni-
versity of Pennsylvania in 1856. He was Moderator of
the General Synod of 1856.

ROBERT CLYDE:

Son of Robert and Nancy (Harrison) Clyde, was
born in Dervock, County Antrim, Ireland, May 6, 1851.
His parents were members of the Presbyterian Church
and connected with the Covenanter Church in 1853,
He received his early education in the schools of his
native County. He came to America in 1865, and
settled in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where,
in 1870, he connected with the Reformed Presbytery,
and in 1874, he returned to the Covenanter Church.
He received his classical education under the direction

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 46 1

of Dr. Steele, under whom also he studied theology
one year, prosecuted his studies another year in the
New School Seminary, and two years in the Allegheny
Seminary, and was licensed by the Philadelphia Pres-
bytery, May 27, 1879. He supplied generally through-
out the Church for several years. He was ordained
by the Iowa Presbytery, and installed pastor of the
Elliota congregation, Caijton, Fillmore County, Min-
nesota, February 12, 1886, where he is in charge.
He married Miss Bella Dougherty, of Philadelphia,.
Pennsylvania, August 21, 1878.

EUSEBIUS McLEAN COLEMAN:

Son of John M. and Margaret (Brown) Coleman,
was born near Dayton, Armstrong County, Pennsyl-
vania, July 5, 1859. In early life his parents removed
to the neighboring vicinity of Elder's Ridge, Indiana
County, Pennsylvania, where he received his early
education in the Elder's Ridge Academy. He engaged
in teaching in South Buffalo, and, in the fall of 1880,
entered Geneva College, where he graduated in 1883.
He became Principal of the Normal Academy at Mc-
Keesport, Pennsylvania, and at the same time studied
theology in the Allegheny Seminary, was licensed by
the Pittsburgh Presbytery, April 12, 1887, and preached
for some months in Canada. He was ordained by the
Rochester Presbytery, and installed pastor of the
Ramsey congregation, Almonte, Ontario, Canada, May
9, 1888, where he is in charge.

WILLIAM JOHN COLEMAN:

Son of John and Mary (Glass) Coleman, was born
in Lisbon, St. Lawrence County, New York, May 12^

462 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

185 1. He received his preparatory course of literary-
training- in the Academy of Ogdensburgh, New York,
and graduated from Geneva College in 1875. He
studied theology in the Allegheny Seminary, and was
licensed by the Rochester Presbytery, April 15, 1878.
He was ordained by the Pittsburgh Presbytery, and
installed pastor of the Monongahela congregation, Mc-
Keesport, Pennsylvania, June 13, 1879, and resigned
this charge April 12, 1881. He accepted an appoint-
ment as Secretary of the National Reform Association,
July I, 1 88 1, and removed his residence to Beaver
Falls, Pennsylvania. He resigned this position, April
I, 1886. He was installed pastor of the congregation
of Utica, Licking County, Ohio, April 15, 1886, and
resigned this charge, November 17, 1887. He accepted
the chair of Political Science in Geneva College, Nov-
ember 29, 1887, where he is engaged in teaching.
He married Miss Lizzie S. George, of Venice, Penn-
sylva^nia, May 29, 1879. The pages of the Christian
Statesman and the CJiristian Nation bear testimony to
his work as a lecturer, and he contributed an exposi-
tion of the Sabbath School lessons to the latter paper.

SAMUEL GP:0RGE CONNER:

Son of William and Nancy (George) Conner, was
born near Midway, Washington County, Pennsylvania,
December 11, 1855. He received his early education
in the schools of Hickory, and graduated from Geneva
College in 1885. He studied theology in the Allegheny
Seminary, was licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery,
April II, 1888, and preached within the bounds of
the Pittsburgh Presbytery.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 463

EBENEZER COOPER:

Son of John and Mary (Martin) Cooper, was born
in the Chester District, South Carolina, August 8,
1795. Giving evidence of early piety, and having the
work of the ministry in view, he passed through the
academical course of study in the classical school of
Mr. John Orr, and graduated from South Carolina
College, Columbia, in 181 7. He studied theology in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under the direction of Rev.
S. B. Wylie, D. D., and was licensed by the Philadel-
phia Presbytery, May 4, 1822. He preached for several
years in the vacancies with general acceptance, and
devoted much time to the societies in Tennessee and
South Carolina. He was ordained by the Northern
Presbytery, June 18, 1828, and took charge of
Hephzibah congregation, Fayetteville, Lincoln County,
Tennessee. The congregation had called him, but he
refused to be installed pastor on account of the
prevalence of slavery and the isolation from his minis-
terial brethren, and, in 1832, he and the majority of
the congregation, removed to Fayette County, Indiana.
During the division of the Church in 1833, he became
identified with the New School branch of the Cove-
nanter Church. He continued to preach in that body
to vacant congregations as his health would permit
for twenty years. In the spring of 1857, he removed
to Cedarville, Green County, Ohio, where he died of
dropsy on the chest, November 13, 1858. He married
Miss Jane McMillan, of Chester, South Carolina, in
1820. He Avas a very mild and pleasing preacher.
He possessed a most kind and peaceful disposition,
and was held in high esteem for his integrity.

464 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

DAVID HACKSTON COULTER:

Son of James and Mahala (Skeggs) Coulter, was
born in Coultersville, Randolph County, Illinois, March
15, 1833. He received his early education in the
school of his native village, and also in Sparta
Academy, and graduated from Geneva College in 1857..
He taught in Geneva College before and after his
graduation for some time. He studied theology in the
Allegheny Seminary, and was licensed by the Illinois
Presbytery, June 28, 1864. He was ordained by the
Iowa Presbytery, and installed pastor of the congrega-
tion of Hopkinton, Delaware County, Iowa, April 18,
1867, and resigned this charge, October 14, 1874. He
was installed pastor of the congregation of Newark,
New Jersey, December 10, 1874, and resigned October
30, 1875, and accepted the chair of Natural Science
in Lenox College, Iowa. He was .installed pastor of
the congregation of Winchester, Jefferson County,
Kansas, August 17, 1877, where he is in charge. He
married Miss Martha A. Forsythe, of Northwood,
Ohio, July 10, 1856.

ALEXANDER CRAIGHEAD:

Son of Rev. Thomas and Margaret Craighead, was
born near Donegal, Ireland, March 18, 1707.* His father
was a Presbyterian minister, came to America in 171 5,
and settled in Freetown, Massachusetts. In 1721, he,
with his parents, removed to New Jersey, thence, in
1724, to White Clay Creek, Delaware, and finally, in
1733. to Octorara, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He
received his classical education under the direction of
* Craighead Genealogy. Dr. Foote's Sketches of North Carolina.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 4^5

his father, under whom, also, he studied theology, and
was licensed by the Donegal Presbytery of the Pres-
byterian Church, October i6, 1734. He supplied "the
first congregation over the river," at Meeting House
Springs, two miles north of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and
was the first minister to preach west of the Susque-
hanna river. He was ordained by the Donegal Pres-
bytery, and installed pastor of the Middle Octorara
congregation, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, November
20, 1735. He was an earnest fervid preacher, and a
zealous promoter of revivals. He was a great admirer
of Whitefield, and accompanied him upon some of his
tours. His zeal, however, was not always tempered with
prudence, and he contended that his ministerial brethren
were too liberal in their views and lax in the appli-
cation of discipline. He insisted upon new terms of
communion, which required parents, when they presented
their children for baptism, to adopt the Solemn League
and Covenant, as the Church across the Atlantic had
always done. He frequently absented himself from
Church courts because of the failure of his brethren to
adhere to the practices of the Church of his fathers,
and for this cause a complaint was lodged against him
in 1740, and the Presbytery met by appointment in
his church to investigate the charges. When the
members of the court came to the church, they found
him preaching from the text, " Let them alone, they
be blind leaders of the blind." In the report to Synod,
the Presbytery spoke of the sermon as a " continued
invective against Pharisee preachers, and the Presbytery
as given over to judicial blindness and hardness." At

466 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

its close, the people and Presbytery were invited to
repair to " the tent " to hear his defence read. The
Presbytery declined to attend, and were proceeding to
business in the church when such a tumult was raised
that they were compelled to withdraw. At the meeting
the next day he appeared and read his protest, in
which he declined the jurisdiction of the Presbytery,
whereupon he was suspended for contumacy, " directing,
however, that if he should signify his sorrow for his
conduct to any member, that member should notify the
Moderator, who was to call the court together and take
off the suspension." With an ardent love of personal
liberty and freedom of opinion, he was far in advance
of his brethren; also, in his views on civil government.
These " advanced views " he gave to the public in
pamphlet form, and attracted so much attention that
Thomas Cookston, one of his majesty's justices in
Lancaster County, had him arraigned for treason, and
laid the pamphlet, in the name of the Governor, before
the Synod of Philadelphia. Though the publication was
anonymous, its authorship was very generally attributed
to Mr. Craighead. The Synod unanimously agreed that
the pamphlet was " full of treason and sedition," and
made haste to declare their abhorrence of the paper,
and with it all principles and practices that tend to
destroy the civil and religious rights of mankind, or to
foment and encourage sedition or dissatisfaction with
the British government, or encourage anything that is
disloyal." At the meeting of Synod in May, 1741, the
Church was divided, and he went with the New
Brunswick party, but did not remain long with them,

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 467

because they refused to acknowledge the validity of the
Solemn League and Covenant sworn by the Church in
Scotland. In 1742, he published his reasons for with-
drawing from the American Presbyterian Church ; the
chief of which was, that "neither the Synod nor the
Presbyteries had adopted the Westminster Standards as
a public act," and, in the fall of 1742, he joined the
languishing cause of the Covenanters. They formed a
General Meeting, over whicn he presided, and he was
instrumental in building them a church in Octorara.
In the fall of 1743, he gathered all the Covenanters of
Eastern Pennsylvania together and they renewed the
Covenants. He also opened up a correspondence with
the Reformed Presbytery of Scotland, and solicited
" helpers who might come and assist him to maintain
the principles of the Scottish Reformation." He, how-
ever, lacked stability. Before any Covenanter minister
could be induced to join him from Scotland, and
having labored with great acceptance among the scattered
societies for seven years, he returned to the Presbyterian
Church, and, in 1749, removed to the Cowpasture river,
in Augusta County, Virginia, where he enjoyed more
freedom in proclaiming his views of independence from
the British government. Here he remained among some
families who had removed from Octorara, and he
ministered to their spiritual wants for six years. In
1755, on account of the disturbed state of the country
by Indians, he crossed the Blue Ridge mountains with
a colony of his people, and settled on' the Catawba
river, in what is now Mecklenberg County, North
Carolina. He was installed pastor of the congregation

468 HISTORY OF THE REFORMED

•of Rocky River and Sugar Creek, Mecklenberg County,
North Carolina, September 19, 1758. In this beautiful
and peaceful valley, the solitary minister between the
Yadkin and the Catawba, he passed the remainder of
his days. Here he freely imbued the minds of his
people with the idea of independence, whose hands and
hearts were in the trying scenes of the Revolution.
The members who formed the Convention at Charlotte,
North Carolina, and framed the First Declaration of
Independence (Mecklenberg, May, 1775), were all
members of the Churches which he had founded and
instructed, and incorporated the principles which he so
uncompromisingly advocated. He died at his home
within three miles of Charlotte, Mecklenberg County,
North Carolina, March 12, 1766, and was buried in the
•old graveyard adjoining the church where he preached.
Tradition says the two sassafras trees at the head and
foot of the grave, sprung from the two sticks upon
which the coffin was borne.

JOHN CRAWFORD:

Son of James and Jane (McAuley) Crawford, was
born in Carncullough, County Antrim, Ireland, May 27,
1828. In early life he evinced decided evidence of a
literary taste, and he was sent to the school in Dervock,
where he received his preparatory training. In 1839,
he began the study of the languages in Derry Keva,
and continued them in Ballymoney. In 1845, he entered
Belfast College, where he took several prizes for pro-
ficiency, and engaged in teaching. In 1849, he entered
the College of Edinburgh, Scotland, where he attended
some classes and waited on the lectures of Dr. Cun-

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA. 469

ningham, of the Free Church Seminary, on Systematic
Theology, and was for some time employed as a
missionary among the Papists in Edinburgh. He studied
theology in the Seminary of Paisley, Scotland, one
year, when his health failed. Following the advice of
physicians and friends, he emigrated to America, January
15, 1852, and settled in the city of Philadelphia, Penn-
sylvania, whither his parents had preceeded him. He
resumed his theological studies under the direction of
Drs. J. M. Willson and S. O. Wylie, and was licensed
by the New York Presbytery, May 24, 1853. He was
ordained by the Philadelphia Presbytery, and installed
pastor of the congregation of Baltimore, Maryland,
November 15, 1853. A few weeks preceeding his death,
he contracted a cold resulting in a violent toothache,
at the time occasioning no alarm ; but the disease
extended rapidly to the lungs, causing congestion, from
which he died, at the residence of Mr. James Smith,
in Baltimore, Maryland, September 3, 1856, and was